<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/grapevines-could-offer-a-breakthrough-alternative-to-plastic-packaging/">Plastic</a> bags are everywhere, and too many slip into rivers and onto beaches. A new analysis finds that policies that either charge a small fee per bag or prohibit them outright cut the share of bags found during shoreline cleanups by 25 to 47 percent.



The study combed through hundreds of city, county, and state rules passed between 2017 and 2023. It matched those policies to more than 45,000 volunteer cleanups across the United States to see what actually changed on the ground.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-who-ran-the-study">Who ran the study</h2>



The research was coauthored by <a href="https://www.udel.edu/academics/colleges/ceoe/departments/smsp/faculty/kimberly-oremus/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Kimberly L. Oremus</a> of the University of Delaware’s School of Marine Science and Policy (<a href="https://www.udel.edu/academics/colleges/ceoe/departments/smsp/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">UDEL</a>). 



Oremus and her collaborator set out to measure litter, not just shopping behavior, so the results speak to what ends up in nature.



The team relied on citizen science, meaning trained volunteers recorded what they collected during beach, river, and lake cleanups. 



They drew on <a href="https://www.coastalcleanupdata.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">TIDES</a>, a public database that stores those counts in one place so researchers can analyze patterns across time and place.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-studying-plastic-bag-policies">Studying plastic bag policies</h2>



To isolate the effect of bag policies, the authors used a Difference-in-Differences (<a href="https://www.publichealth.columbia.edu/research/population-health-methods/difference-difference-estimation" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">DiD</a>) approach that compares places with and without new laws over the same period. 



That design helps rule out unrelated trends that affect everyone, such as national shifts in shopping or packaging.



The headline result is simple. In communities with full bans or fees, the share of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/drinking-from-plastic-bottles-linked-to-high-blood-pressure-and-heart-problems/">plastic</a> bags in the litter mix fell relative to similar places without policies, and the decline grew in the years after a law took effect.



State level rules tended to be more reliable in the data than city or county policies. Effects looked similar along coasts and rivers, with hints of larger gains along lakes where winds and currents spread litter differently.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-plastic-policy-fees-vs-bans">Plastic policy: Fees vs. bans</h2>



Fees change the default at every checkout and discourage taking a bag when you do not need one, which reduces both thin and thicker bag use.



Other <a href="https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/carrier-bag-charge-summary-of-data-in-england/single-use-plastic-carrier-bags-charge-data-for-england-2024-to-2025" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">evidence</a> points in the same direction outside the United States. England reports an almost 98 percent drop in single use carrier bags at major retailers since its charge began.



Policies that only restrict thin bags often allow thicker <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/agricultural-soil-is-now-the-worlds-biggest-plastic-dumping-ground/">plastic</a> labeled as reusable. 



Those partial bans showed the smallest and least precise effects in the analysis, which is consistent with shoppers substituting one kind of plastic for another.



Some states also pass preemption <a href="https://www.ncsl.org/environment-and-natural-resources/state-plastic-bag-legislation" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">laws</a> that block cities and counties from regulating bags at all. When local governments cannot act, the study’s data suggest statewide policies become especially important.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-wildlife-and-entanglement">Wildlife and entanglement</h2>



The cleanup records include notes on animals found <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/microplastics-found-in-99-percent-sea-turtles-organ-tissue-reproductive-system/">entangled in debris</a>. 



In areas with bag policies, the presence of entangled animals dropped by roughly 30 to 37 percent, although the authors caution that the estimates are imprecise and more data are needed.



That finding aligns with what we know about <a href="https://www.nrdc.org/stories/single-use-plastics-101" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">single-use-plastics</a>. Thin bags linger in water and along shorelines, where they can snag, smother, or be eaten by turtles, birds, and fish.



Many studies track what happens at store checkouts, but fewer track what ends up outdoors. Shoreline cleanups offer a window into that last step in the chain from purchase to pollution.



Across the study period, the share of bags among collected items rose overall, but it rose less where bag laws existed. That pattern is exactly what you want to see if policies are slowing the flow of litter into the environment.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-global-plastic-policy-steps">Global plastic policy steps</h2>



A small, universal fee is a simple tool that nudges behavior without banning choices. Full bans can work too, and the analysis shows both approaches reduce the share of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/glass-bottles-contain-more-microplastics-than-plastic-containers/">plastic</a> bags found during cleanups.



The mix of policies should match local conditions. In places with more bag litter to begin with, impacts were largest, so targeting high problem areas with fast action can deliver quick gains.



Plastic bag rules are only one part of the picture. Negotiators from 175 countries are working toward a plastics treaty under <a href="https://www.unep.org/inc-plastic-pollution" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">UNEP</a> that could standardize action on a wider set of products and chemicals.



The study notes that bottles, caps, and other items did not decline when bag policies passed. That is a signal that targeted rules for other single use products would be needed to curb overall litter.



Adopt a modest fee or a full ban that applies across retail and restaurant settings, and keep the text simple so it is easy to enforce. Pair the policy with clear signs at checkout and with retailer reporting that tracks compliance.



Measure results in the same way the researchers did. Recruit volunteers, log items in TIDES, and watch how the litter mix changes year over year so the policy can be adjusted as needed.



The study is published in <a href="https://www.science.org/doi/10.1126/science.adp9274" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Science</a>.



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Studies confirm that a small tax definitely helps curb plastic pollution

Plastic bags are everywhere, and too many slip into rivers and onto beaches. A new analysis finds that policies that either charge a small fee per bag or prohibit them outright cut the share of bags found during shoreline cleanups by 25 to 47 percent. The study combed through hundreds of city, county, and state rules passed between 2017 and 2023. It matched those policies to more than 45,000 volunteer cleanups across the United States to see what actually changed on the ground. Who ran the study...

Tropical forests, storing a third of the world’s carbon, face uncertain futures as <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/tropical-forests-are-losing-their-carbon-storage-capacity/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">carbon sinks</a> due to nutrient-poor soils. However, a new study published in the journal the <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1111/nph.19812" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">New Phytologist</a> has found that these forests have flexible nutrient acquisition strategies that might allow them to thrive despite nutrient limitations.



“We may not have to worry about it so much,” said senior author Sarah Batterman, a tropical forest ecologist at the <a href="https://www.caryinstitute.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Cary Institute of Ecosystem Studies</a>. “Because of these flexible strategies, trees may be able to support a carbon sink in the future, even with nutrient constraints.”&nbsp;



“Our findings support the potential of tropical reforestation and conserving intact forests as a long-term climate solution.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-nutrient-acquisition-strategies-of-tropical-forests">Nutrient acquisition strategies of tropical forests</h2>



The experts conducted an unprecedented experiment in the lowland tropical wet forest of Panama, covering 76 plots across 16 square kilometers.&nbsp;



The team examined how forests of different ages adjust <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/fruit-eating-mammals-fertilize-the-soil-in-tropical-forests/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">nutrient acquisition</a> strategies to access phosphorus, using either an enzyme called phosphatase or mycorrhizal fungi. Both methods require significant carbon and nitrogen investment from the trees.



“While belowground processes are very important for ecosystem function, they are poorly understood compared to above-ground processes because they are more difficult to study,” said lead author Michelle Wong, an assistant professor at <a href="https://www.yale.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Yale University</a> and former postdoctoral fellow at the Cary Institute.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-strategies-differ-depending-on-the-forest-s-age">Strategies differ depending on the forest’s age</h2>



The research showed that forests of different ages respond differently to nutrient additions. Younger forests, often limited by <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/earth-has-too-much-and-too-little-nitrogen-at-the-same-time/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">nitrogen</a>, showed increased phosphatase activity when nitrogen was added, enabling better phosphorus acquisition.&nbsp;



In contrast, older forests displayed increased phosphatase activity when phosphorus was added, indicating a shift from nitrogen to phosphorus limitation as forests mature.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-flexibility-of-tropical-forests">Flexibility of tropical forests</h2>



These findings highlight the flexibility of nutrient acquisition strategies in tropical forests, with phosphatase activity increasing by half in response to nitrogen and decreasing by half in response to phosphorus. However, mycorrhizal colonization responses were less predictable.



“We still don’t know whether the flexibility is enough to get all the nutrients forests need in the future,” Batterman said. Despite this, there is a buffering capacity that may alleviate nutrient limitations temporarily.&nbsp;



According to the researchers, the ability to adjust strategies might provide forests with resilience to recover from <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/land-use-changes-expose-the-amazon-to-environmental-threats/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">land-use changes</a> and maintain productivity in a carbon-rich world.



For forest managers and reforestation organizations, the study offers practical advice: consider nutrient limitations and use a diversity of trees with different phosphorus acquisition strategies. Ensuring trees are adapted to the phosphorus levels at each site is crucial.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-tropical-forests-as-a-climate-solution-nbsp">Tropical forests as a climate solution&nbsp;</h2>



Currently, most reforestation efforts focus on quickly planting available seedlings, but Batterman is optimistic about forests as a climate solution if managed correctly.



“We can implement it immediately, it’s low cost, and it has so many co-benefits, like protecting watersheds, enhancing <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/tree-plantations-have-hidden-impacts-on-tropical-biodiversity/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">biodiversity</a>, and protecting species that are important to Indigenous people. But it needs to be done correctly," said Batterman.



"We’re at a point where science can guide the process and ensure the carbon is going to be there for a long time to come."



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



Tropical forests, also known as rainforests, are dense, warm, and wet woodlands located near the equator. These forests experience a hot climate and receive high annual rainfall, making them incredibly biodiverse, home to more than half of the world's plant and animal species.&nbsp;



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



They are characterized by multiple layers of vegetation including towering trees, shorter understory plants, and ground level flora, which create a complex ecosystem. The tall canopy of the forest supports a variety of animals and plants, while the lower parts of the forest provide shelter and food for countless species.



Tropical forests play a crucial role in regulating global climates by absorbing carbon dioxide, and they are vital in maintaining the Earth's water cycle through their transpiration processes.&nbsp;



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ongoing-threats-nbsp">Ongoing threats&nbsp;</h3>



However, they are under threat from deforestation, which is driven by logging, agriculture, and urban expansion. This loss not only threatens the biodiversity within these forests but also has a significant impact on global climate patterns and carbon storage capabilities.&nbsp;



Conservation efforts are ongoing, aiming to protect these valuable ecosystems by promoting sustainable practices and establishing protected areas.



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Tropical forests have strategies to survive in nutrient-poor soils

Tropical forests, storing a third of the world’s carbon, face...

In recent years,&nbsp;the menacing glow of wildfires has painted an increasingly familiar picture across North America.&nbsp;While flames consume forests and scorch landscapes,&nbsp;their tendrils of smoke reach far <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/wildfire-smoke-significantly-impacts-lake-ecosystems/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">beyond the burn zones</a> (such as lakes),&nbsp;silently invading ecosystems that might seem untouched by the inferno.&nbsp;



A remarkable study from the <a href="https://www.ucdavis.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of California,&nbsp;Davis</a> has illuminated the startling extent of this smoky invasion,&nbsp;revealing that nearly every lake in North America has been touched by wildfire smoke for at least one day per year from 2019 to 2021.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-lake-smoke-day">Lake-smoke day</h2>



To grasp the magnitude of this phenomenon,&nbsp;the UC Davis researchers introduced a novel concept:&nbsp;the "lake-smoke day." This metric quantifies the number of days a lake is exposed to smoke during a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/wildfire-activity-is-expected-to-intensify-in-the-pacific-northwest/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">fire season</a>,&nbsp;providing a standardized way to track and compare the impact of smoke across different lakes and regions.



"With this study, we quantified for the first time the scope of the smoke problem," said lead author Mary Jade Farruggia, a PhD candidate at UC Davis. "We show that it's not just a widespread problem, but one that is long-lasting in a lot of places."



The implications of this widespread smoke exposure are far-reaching.&nbsp;Smoke particles can alter the amount and composition of sunlight reaching lakes,&nbsp;disrupting the delicate balance of aquatic ecosystems.&nbsp;



Additionally,&nbsp;smoke and ash can deposit nutrients,&nbsp;carbon,&nbsp;and even toxic compounds into lakes,&nbsp;with potentially cascading effects on water quality and the organisms that call these lakes home.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-most-lakes-exposed-to-wildfire-smoke-over-30-days">Most lakes exposed to wildfire smoke over 30 days</h2>



Even more concerning is the finding that a staggering 89% of North American lakes experienced smoke for more than 30 days each year during the study period.&nbsp;



This persistent exposure raises questions about the long-term consequences for lake ecosystems and the services they provide,&nbsp;such as clean water,&nbsp;recreation,&nbsp;and fisheries.



The study's findings serve as a wake-up call,&nbsp;highlighting the need to understand and manage the impacts of wildfire smoke on aquatic environments.&nbsp;As wildfires continue to rage with increasing frequency and intensity,&nbsp;their smoky fingerprints are spreading across the continent,&nbsp;leaving few lakes untouched.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-global-concern">A global concern</h2>



While the study focused on North America,&nbsp;the issue of wildfire smoke's impact on lakes is a global concern.&nbsp;



As climate change fuels hotter,&nbsp;drier conditions,&nbsp;wildfires are becoming more prevalent and severe in many parts of the world.&nbsp;The UC Davis research underscores the need for international collaboration to monitor and mitigate the effects of smoke on aquatic ecosystems.



"Smoke is widespread, and smoke is pervasive," said study senior author Steven Sadro, a UC Davis limnologist. "We knew that by looking out the window and looking at satellite images we see almost every summer. Now we’re starting to quantify it.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-protecting-lakes-from-wildfire-smoke">Protecting lakes from wildfire smoke</h2>



The research team's innovative use of the "lake-smoke day" metric opens new avenues for studying and managing the impacts of wildfire smoke on lakes.&nbsp;By quantifying the extent and duration of smoke exposure,&nbsp;scientists and policymakers can develop targeted strategies to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/invasive-species-use-wildfires-and-drought-as-an-opening-to-move-in/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">protect these vital ecosystems</a>.



The experts noted that the effects of wildfire smoke on lake ecosystems are not yet fully understood. However, the pervasive nature of smoke exposure, now impacting nearly every lake in North America, underscores the urgency to study and address this issue.



With the increasing frequency and intensity of wildfires,&nbsp;the presence of smoke in lake environments is becoming more persistent.&nbsp;This continued exposure could have <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/air-conditioning-systems-trap-harmful-particles-from-wildfire-smoke/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">significant consequences</a> for water quality,&nbsp;aquatic life,&nbsp;and the overall ecological balance of these vital ecosystems.



By recognizing the widespread and potentially harmful impact of wildfire smoke on lakes,&nbsp;scientists,&nbsp;policymakers,&nbsp;and communities can work together to develop and implement proactive measures.&nbsp;These actions could include improved wildfire management strategies,&nbsp;early warning systems for smoke events,&nbsp;and research to better understand the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/scientists-uncover-effects-of-wildfires-on-soil-chemistry/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">long-term effects</a> of smoke exposure on lakes.



Protecting these valuable freshwater resources is crucial to ensuring their health and resilience for future generations.&nbsp;By addressing the threat of wildfire smoke,&nbsp;we can safeguard the essential ecological services that lakes provide,&nbsp;such as clean water,&nbsp;biodiversity,&nbsp;and recreational opportunities.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/gcb.17367" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Global Change Biology</a>.



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Wildfire smoke has affected almost every lake in North America

In recent years,&nbsp;the menacing glow of wildfires has painted an...

Over a 15-year period that concluded in 2020, the rocky shores of the Pacific Northwest underwent significant ecological changes. This time frame encompassed both a marine heat wave due to climate <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/seagrass-meadows-and-climate-change-an-uncertain-future/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">change</a> and a devastating sea star wasting disease <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/most-people-fear-climate-change-will-end-the-world-during-their-lifetime/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">epidemic</a>.



Researchers from <a href="https://oregonstate.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Oregon State University</a> have observed a dramatic shift in the composition of species along these shores, indicating potential vulnerabilities to ongoing climate fluctuations.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ecosystems-of-the-pacific-northwest">Ecosystems of the Pacific Northwest</h2>



The ecosystems of the Pacific Northwest are rich and diverse. This region includes dense forests, fertile valleys, and diverse marine environments. 



Coastal forests, dominated by towering conifers like Douglas fir and western hemlock, provide habitat for numerous species, including the endangered spotted owl and marbled murrelet. The inland areas feature rivers and streams crucial for salmon runs, which in turn support predators such as bears and eagles.



In the marine environment, the Pacific Northwest is home to vibrant kelp forests, seagrass beds, and estuaries teeming with life. These habitats support a variety of marine mammals, including orcas, sea otters, and seals. 



The region also faces challenges from climate change, pollution, and overfishing, which threaten its biodiversity. Conservation efforts are crucial for maintaining these ecosystems, ensuring that they continue to thrive and support the myriad of species that depend on them.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-climate-change-shifts-in-the-pacific-northwest">Climate change shifts in the Pacific Northwest</h2>



A recent study conducted in the region focused on various locations across Oregon and California. 



The findings revealed that sessile invertebrates such as mussels and barnacles have increased in prevalence. In contrast, seaweed species, including kelps, have seen a decline. 



This shift occurred after the significant loss of adult ochre sea stars, a key predator in these ecosystems, and during a period of unusually high water temperatures.



Zechariah Meunier, a doctoral graduate and the lead author of the study, explained the critical role of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/sea-stars-may-actually-be-walking-heads-with-no-bodies/">sea stars</a> in this ecosystem. 



“Sea stars are like the wolves of rocky shores because they normally eat enough mussels and barnacles to prevent these invertebrates from dominating the lower elevation areas. Many kelps did not survive the thermal stress during the heat wave," noted Meunier.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-climate-changes-and-resilience-on-pacific-shores">Climate changes and resilience on Pacific shores</h2>



The end of the epidemic and the subsequent cooling of ocean temperatures did not lead to a recovery of the initial community structures. 



This persistent change suggests a troubling low resilience among these communities to both temperature changes and alterations in predator populations.



Meunier expressed concerns over the long-term implications: “Diminishing resilience may lead to degraded rocky shore communities under future climate conditions."



“And a warming climate will make restoring baseline conditions more difficult – regime shifts to degraded states are likely to last longer and put community structure and ecosystem function at risk.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-broader-impacts-of-climate-change">Broader impacts of climate change </h2>



The health of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/climate-change-is-impacting-marine-life-more-than-we-realized/">marine ecosystems</a> is crucial, not only for biodiversity but also for their broader environmental roles.



The ocean, for instance, produces half of the oxygen we breathe and absorbs a significant portion of the carbon dioxide emitted annually.



However, marine ecosystems are now facing an onslaught of stressors, including harmful algal blooms, ocean acidification, and hypoxia. These challenges often exacerbate one another, leading to significant damage to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/marine-heat-waves-are-persisting-in-the-u-s-even-in-winter/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">marine</a> habitats and loss of species diversity.



When these stressors become particularly severe, they can cause habitat transitions or regime shifts, such as the shift from kelp forests to urchin barrens observed in the Pacific Ocean.



“A classic example of multiple stressors causing a regime shift is the transition from kelp forests to urchin barrens in the Pacific Ocean off the west coast of North America,” explained Meunier. 



This transition has been influenced by factors including a marine <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/what-caused-the-massive-pacific-northwest-heatwave/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">heat wave</a>, urchin overgrazing, the historical removal of the sea otter, and the recent mass mortality of the sunflower star.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-hope-for-pacific-northwest-coastal-ecosystems">Hope for Pacific Northwest coastal ecosystems</h2>



Despite these challenges, there is some optimism. Adult ochre sea stars are beginning to recover in size and number to levels observed before the disease epidemic.



The resurgence offers hope that these predators may once again help regulate the expansion of barnacles and mussels, potentially aiding in the stabilization of these <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/restoring-coastal-ecosystems-can-mitigate-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">coastal ecosystems</a>.



In conclusion, the resilience of rocky shore communities in the Pacific Northwest is being tested by climate change and environmental stressors. The ongoing research into these impacts is vital for understanding how to protect and restore these crucial natural habitats.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41559-024-02425-5" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature Ecology &amp; Evolution</a>.



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Pacific Northwest ecosystems are being tested by climate change

Over a 15-year period that concluded in 2020, the rocky...

Floating solar <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/climate-change-will-increase-the-value-of-solar-panels/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">panels</a>, or floating photovoltaic (FPV) systems, are not just an innovative technology but a potential powerhouse that could meet the total electricity demands of some countries, according to a recent study.



Researchers from <a href="https://www.bangor.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Bangor University</a>, <a href="https://www.lancaster.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Lancaster University</a>, and the <a href="https://www.ceh.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">UK Centre for Ecology &amp; Hydrology</a> embarked on a global evaluation to determine the capabilities of these low-carbon solar arrays.



The team analyzed climate data across nearly 68,000 lakes and reservoirs worldwide, focusing on those within 10 kilometers of population centers, outside protected areas, and free from extreme drought or freeze conditions.



The researchers found that even by covering just 10% of these water bodies' surfaces, FPV systems could generate approximately 1302 terawatt hours annually - enough to quadruple the United Kingdom's yearly <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/climate-change-electricity-europe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">electricity usage</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-are-floating-solar-panels">What are floating solar panels?</h2>



Floating solar panels are solar power installations mounted on buoyant platforms that float on the surface of water bodies such as lakes, reservoirs, and ponds. 



Unlike traditional land-based solar panels, FPV systems utilize the underused surface of water bodies, which can be particularly beneficial in regions where land is scarce or expensive.



These panels function similarly to conventional solar panels, converting sunlight into electricity. However, the unique aspect of FPVs is their placement on water. This positioning offers several advantages. 



The cooling effect of the water helps increase the efficiency of the solar panels, as solar cells operate more efficiently at lower temperatures. Additionally, placing panels on water bodies reduces the need for land, freeing up valuable space for agriculture or other purposes.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-advantages-of-floating-solar-panels">Advantages of floating solar panels</h2>



One significant benefit of FPV systems is their dual utility: generating power while conserving land for other purposes. 



Additionally, the cooling effect of water increases the efficiency of the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/climate-change-will-increase-the-value-of-solar-panels/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">solar panels</a> compared to their land-based counterparts.



<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/which-is-better-planting-forests-or-building-solar-farms/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Environmental benefits</a> also accompany this technology. By covering the surface of lakes, FPVs can reduce water evaporation and decrease the likelihood of algal blooms by blocking sunlight and restricting nutrient mixing.



However, the overarching environmental impact remains under review, with researchers calling for more comprehensive studies to ensure these systems do not disrupt aquatic ecosystems adversely.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-global-solution-with-local-benefits">A global solution with local benefits</h2>



Dr. Iestyn Woolway, the study's lead author, emphasized the clear benefits in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/harvesting-electricity-with-nature-inspired-techniques/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">energy generation</a> that FPV offers.



"We still don’t know exactly how floating panels might affect the ecosystem within a natural lake, in different conditions and locations. But the potential gain in energy generation from FPV is clear, so we need to put that research in place so this technology can be safely adopted," he stated.



In terms of practical application, the study revealed that nations such as Papua New Guinea, Ethiopia, and Rwanda could fully satisfy their electricity needs through FPV. 



Other countries like Bolivia and Tonga could nearly meet their demand, with FPV potentially supplying 87% and 92% of their needs, respectively. 



In total, many nations, particularly those in Africa, the Caribbean, South America, and Central Asia, could source between 40% to 70% of their annual electricity from floating solar panels. 



Even in less sunny locales like Finland and Denmark, FPVs could contribute to 17% and 7% of the electricity demands, respectively.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-strategic-deployment-of-floating-solar-panels">Strategic deployment of floating solar panels</h2>



Professor Alona Armstrong, co-author of the study, highlighted the strategic importance of FPV deployment. "Our work shows there is much potential for FPV around the world. But deployments need to be strategic, considering the consequences for energy security, nature, and society, as well as Net Zero objectives," she explained.



Currently, the UK has a modest footprint in the FPV market, with the largest installation being a 6.3MW floating solar farm near London. 



Despite this, the potential for expansion is significant, provided future installations are guided by thoughtful consideration of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/renewable-energy-is-the-latest-threat-to-bird-populations/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">environmental</a> and societal impacts.



Floating solar technology presents a promising frontier in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/u-s-utilities-may-be-100-percent-renewable-energy-by-2060/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">renewable energy</a>. By leveraging underutilized water bodies, countries have the opportunity to significantly boost their renewable energy output while addressing environmental concerns. 



The continued research and strategic deployment of the innovative FPVs could play a crucial role in shaping a sustainable, low-carbon future.



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Floating solar panels could power entire countries

Floating solar panels, or floating photovoltaic (FPV) systems, are not...

Recent research has revealed a fascinating development in the Arctic: Pacific salmon, traditionally scarce in these icy waters, are venturing into the Canadian Arctic in greater numbers. 



This shift, linked to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/extreme-ocean-heating-signals-alarm-for-a-3c-warmer-world/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">warmer ocean temperatures</a>, suggests that climate change is paving new pathways for these fish.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-pacific-salmon-in-the-arctic">Pacific salmon in the Arctic</h2>



Salmon have not typically thronged the Arctic Ocean and its tributaries. However, in recent years, local fishermen have reported occasional increases in salmon catches.



This uptick in sightings and captures has been particularly notable among subsistence fishermen, hinting at significant ecological changes.



These changes suggest that Pacific salmon are not only adapting to - but also thriving in -environments previously considered too harsh for their survival, potentially altering the local marine ecosystem.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-salmon-navigate-new-waters">How salmon navigate new waters</h2>



Researchers at <a href="https://www.dfo-mpo.gc.ca/index-eng.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Fisheries and Oceans Canada</a> and the <a href="https://www.uaf.edu/uaf/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Alaska Fairbanks</a>, in collaboration with local communities in the western Canadian Arctic, have discovered that the surge in salmon numbers correlates with a series of warm, ice-free periods in the Arctic Ocean north of Alaska.



The study highlights a two-part mechanism facilitating this migration. Initially, warm late-spring conditions in the Chukchi Sea, northwest of Alaska, lure the salmon northward.



If these conditions extend into the summer in the Beaufort Sea, northeast of Alaska, the salmon journey continues into Canadian waters.



This correlation was confirmed by comparing data from the <a href="https://www.noaa.gov/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration</a> (NOAA) with local salmon catch rates since the year 2000, underscoring a clear link between salmon abundance and favorable ocean conditions.



“You need both gates to be open, which is fascinating in itself. If they don’t align in terms of having open, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/arctic-rivers-undergoing-dramatic-change-thawing-permafrost-ice/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ice-free water</a>, salmon don’t turn that corner," noted Professor Curry Cunningham. 



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



The Arctic Salmon Program, a collaborative effort with Indigenous communities, has tracked these unexpected salmon appearances for over two decades. 



Subsistence harvesters, targeting species native to Arctic waters, have documented salmon catches outside their typical range, providing valuable insights into the changing <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/small-geese-have-a-large-impact-on-arctic-ecosystems/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Arctic ecosystem</a>.



Karen Dunmall, a research scientist, noted the broader implications of these findings. "It really helps to address some questions from community members about biodiversity change and subsistence and how they feed their families," she said.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-local-observations">Local observations</h2>



The research not only informs local communities but also contributes to a greater understanding of how species adapt to rapidly changing climates.



Frankie Dillon, an Indigenous fisherman, shared his surprise upon encountering his first salmon in 2010 in the northern Yukon. "I had to ask, ‘What kind of fish was that?’” Dillon recalled. 



Before this encounter, the only salmon he had seen were on television, highlighting the rarity of such sightings in the region.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-northward-pacific-salmon-migration">Northward Pacific salmon migration </h2>



With climate models predicting that the conditions enabling this northward <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/climate-change-has-unpredictable-effects-on-salmon-migration/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">migration</a> of salmon through the Chukchi and Beaufort seas will become more common by the 2040s, the study's findings are not just a local phenomenon but a sign of broader ecological shifts affecting the entire region.



These changes are not confined to Canada; salmon are also appearing off the coast of Alaska, indicating a region-wide impact.



Joe Langan, a postdoctoral fellow who co-led the research, emphasized this broader perspective: “It’s not as if these fish are all skipping Alaska and heading to Canada. Some of these salmon are ending up on Alaska’s North Slope too.”



As the Arctic waters continue to warm, the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/salmon-migration-routes-discovered-using-historical-data/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">migration of salmon</a> into these new territories not only reshapes local fishing practices but also provides a clear, swim-by-swim report of how global climate change is altering our world.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-pacific-salmon-nbsp">Pacific salmon&nbsp;</h2>



Pacific salmon are a group of fish known for their anadromous life cycle, meaning they are born in fresh water, migrate to the ocean for their adult life, and then return to fresh water to reproduce and die.&nbsp;



This fascinating life journey is marked by remarkable transformations in their body physiology and coloration to adapt to different environments.&nbsp;



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-main-species">Main species</h3>



The five main species of Pacific salmon - Chinook, Coho, Sockeye, Pink, and Chum - are primarily found in the rivers and coastal waters of the northern Pacific Ocean, particularly around North America and northeastern Asia.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ecological-role-nbsp">Ecological role&nbsp;</h3>



These fish play critical roles in their ecosystems. They serve as prey for a variety of wildlife, including bears, eagles, and orcas, and their decaying bodies provide important nutrients to aquatic systems and forest ecosystems when they die after spawning.&nbsp;



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-cultural-and-economic-significance-nbsp">Cultural and economic significance&nbsp;</h3>



Pacific salmon are also culturally significant to many indigenous groups in the Pacific Northwest, who rely on them for food, trade, and as a central element of their spiritual and cultural practices.



Commercially, Pacific salmon are a valuable resource for fisheries, with their rich, oily meat being highly prized for its flavor and nutritional content.&nbsp;



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-threats-nbsp">Threats&nbsp;</h3>



However, they face several threats, such as habitat loss, pollution, climate change, and overfishing, which have led to significant declines in some populations, prompting efforts to manage and conserve these iconic fish.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/gcb.17353" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Global Change Biology</a>.



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Warming oceans welcome salmon to the Arctic

Recent research has revealed a fascinating development in the Arctic:...

The familiar patterns of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/global-warming-is-disrupting-the-seasonal-flow-of-rivers/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">streamflow</a> across the Northern Hemisphere are changing due to a decline in snowfall, raising the risk of summer <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/global-drought-crisis-un-warns-of-unprecedented-emergency/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">droughts</a>.



Regions like North America's Rocky Mountains, the European Alps, and northern Europe, traditionally covered with snow, are experiencing premature thaws. This shift, driven by <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/global-warming-will-produce-droughts-that-persist-for-years/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">global warming</a>, disrupts the expected flow of rivers during the summer.



Meanwhile, in areas accustomed to less snowfall, the onset of seasonal streams is delayed, with warm-season rains starting later in the year and becoming a predominant source of river flow.



Additionally, winter precipitation has decreased, compounding the summer drought risk.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-implications-of-changing-streamflows">Implications of changing streamflows</h2>



The research highlights a growing risk of summer droughts. Such conditions are likely to impact several critical areas: water and food security, ecosystem health, and hydropower generation.



Dr. Ross Woods from the <a href="https://www.bristol.ac.uk/engineering/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Bristol’s Faculty of Engineering</a> emphasized the broader implications of these findings.



"The way water is distributed through the year is shifting, and this has profound implications not only for ecosystems but also for how we manage food security and respond to natural hazards," explained Dr. Woods.



In some regions, where snowfall significantly contributes to the water cycle, it has been observed that precipitation in a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/flash-droughts-are-increasing-around-the-world-due-to-warming-climate/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">warming climate</a> is less likely to fall as snow. The resulting changes to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/human-driven-climate-change-is-to-blame-for-sharp-snowpack-declines-since-1980/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">snowpacks</a> and the timing of river flows generated by meltwater are noteworthy.



"Initially, there were varied reports about these changes; some regions reported earlier peaks while others saw little to no shift or even later occurrences in the year," said Dr. Woods.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-studying-thousands-of-river-basins">Studying thousands of river basins</h2>



The researchers conducted an extensive analysis of climate and river flow data from more than 3,000 river basins in the Northern hemisphere, spanning from 1950 to 2020.



The team assessed changes in the proportion of precipitation falling as snow, the seasonal variations, and the timing of both precipitation and river flow, comparing these elements across two distinct ten-year periods - one with the highest snowfall fraction and the other with the lowest.



"The increased variability from year to year in how water flows through these rivers suggests we're facing more uncertainty moving forward. This makes planning and managing water resources a significant challenge," noted Dr. Woods.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-understanding-streamflow-to-combat-summer-drought">Understanding streamflow to combat summer drought</h2>



As the climate continues to warm, the peaks of seasonal streamflows tend to diminish, leading to a more even distribution of river flow throughout the year. The reduction in seasonal variation is primarily due to a decrease in streamflow during the warm seasons, while cold-season flows remain comparatively stable.



"The interannual variability in timing and seasonal shifts during periods of declining <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/lack-of-fresh-snowfall-causes-greenland-to-melt-faster/">snowfall</a> underscores the need for future water management plans to accommodate greater variability," said Dr. Woods.



The research team is now set to delve deeper into the reasons behind consistent reductions in precipitation during the colder seasons of warmer winters, aiming to refine their understanding and improve predictive capabilities for future climate scenarios.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-potential-impacts-of-summer-droughts">Potential impacts of summer droughts</h2>



Summer droughts have far-reaching impacts beyond the scope of current research, affecting various sectors and ecosystems. 



One critical area is agriculture. Prolonged droughts can severely reduce crop yields, leading to food shortages and increased prices. This threatens food security, especially in regions heavily dependent on rain-fed agriculture.



The energy sector also feels the effects. Many hydropower plants rely on consistent river flow to generate electricity. Reduced water availability during droughts can limit power production, leading to energy shortages and increased reliance on fossil fuels, which exacerbates climate change.



Ecosystems and biodiversity face significant threats as well. Aquatic habitats suffer when river levels drop, impacting fish and other wildlife. Terrestrial ecosystems, particularly forests, are more prone to wildfires during dry conditions, leading to habitat loss and decreased biodiversity.



Public health can also deteriorate due to water scarcity, as limited water supplies may lead to inadequate sanitation and hygiene. This increases the risk of waterborne diseases. Additionally, the stress on water resources can lead to conflicts over water usage among communities, regions, or even nations.



The research is published in the journal <a href="http://10.1038/s41586-024-07299-y" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature</a>.



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Growing risk of summer droughts linked to changes in river flow

The familiar patterns of streamflow across the Northern Hemisphere are...

Each spring, as the warming Arctic sun pierces the long winter darkness, a flurry of life emerges, including the awakening of giant <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/viruses-influence-methane-production-across-various-ecosystems/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">viruses</a>. Polar bears leave their dens, Arctic terns return from their migrations, and musk oxen traverse northward.



Alongside these familiar sights, a less visible but equally significant awakening occurs on the Greenland ice sheet. 



As the ice starts to melt, dark patches begin to appear, a phenomenon caused by blooming algae. These algae absorb sunlight, accelerating the ice melt and contributing to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/highest-points-of-greenland-are-now-affected-by-global-warming/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">global warming</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-giant-viruses-on-ice">Giant viruses on ice</h2>



In this bleak scenario of global warming, a ray of hope shines through in the form of an unexpected ally: giant viruses.



Postdoctoral researcher Laura Perini and her team at the Department of Environmental Science at <a href="https://envs.au.dk/en/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Aarhus University</a> have made a groundbreaking discovery.



Nestled within the icy expanse, where algae proliferate, giant viruses lie in wait. 



Unlike their microscopic counterparts, these viruses are formidable in size, comparable to bacteria, and could potentially serve as natural regulators of algae growth.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-giants-among-microbes">Giants among microbes</h2>



Giant viruses, first identified in 1981, defy the typical characteristics of their kin. Measuring about 2.5 micrometers, they are not just physically larger; their genomes are also expansive, containing millions of genetic letters.



This allows them a level of autonomy uncommon among <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/giant-viruses-found-in-yellowstones-hot-springs-are-1-5-billion-years-old/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">viruses</a>, enabling them to replicate and transcribe DNA without a host's cellular machinery.



Such capabilities make them fascinating subjects of study and potentially crucial players in ecological balance.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-viruses-in-the-warming-world">Viruses in the warming world</h2>



This discovery on the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/shock-discovery-greenland-ice-sheet-is-teeming-with-microorganisms/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Greenland ice sheet</a> marks a significant first. "We analyzed samples from various forms of ice and found active giant viruses in areas dominated by pigmented microalgae," noted Perini.



This revelation sheds light on a vibrant, albeit microscopic, ecosystem that thrives in conditions previously thought to be barren.



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-full"><a href="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/greenland-ice_covered-viruses_blackened-algae_credit-Shunan-Feng_1m.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><img src="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/greenland-ice_covered-viruses_blackened-algae_credit-Shunan-Feng_1s.jpg" alt="Algae blackens the Greenland ice. Credit: Laura Perini" class="wp-image-1936070"/></a><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Algae blackens the Greenland ice. Credit: Laura Perini</figcaption></figure>



The ecosystem includes bacteria, fungi, and protists - all centered around the algae, with giant viruses perhaps playing a pivotal role in moderating <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/toxic-algal-blooms-will-become-more-frequent-off-the-u-s-west-coast/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">algal blooms</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-presence-of-mrna">Presence of mRNA</h2>



Despite their size, these viruses elude the naked eye and even conventional microscopes. 



"Our discovery was made by analyzing DNA from collected samples. We sifted through massive datasets to find markers indicative of giant viruses," said Perini.



The presence of mRNA, which decays rapidly unless actively produced by living organisms, further confirmed the activity of these viruses on the ice.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-uncertain-role-of-giant-viruses">Uncertain role of giant viruses</h2>



While the potential of these giant viruses to control algae and mitigate ice melt from global warming is promising, much remains unknown.



"Their exact hosts and mechanisms are still unclear. Some may target protists, others the algae directly," noted Perini. Her ongoing research aims to delve deeper into these interactions, with more findings expected to be published later in the year.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-giant-viruses-and-global-warming">Giant viruses and global warming</h2>



The study of these giant viruses not only broadens our understanding of viral biology but also opens new avenues in environmental science. 



By exploring these organisms further, scientists like Perini hope to unlock natural solutions to some of the challenges posed by <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/climate-change-is-unleashing-ancient-zombie-viruses/">climate change</a>.



As the Arctic continues to evolve under the pressures of global warming, the role of these viruses could be more significant than ever.



The study represents a crucial step toward understanding the complex interplay of life in one of Earth's most extreme environments.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-other-critical-roles-of-giant-viruses">Other critical roles of giant viruses</h2>



Beyond regulating algae on Greenland ice, giant viruses play several critical roles. Their large genomes allow them to perform complex functions, often independent of host cells, which sets them apart from typical viruses. 



In <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ocean-based-viruses-discovered-that-trap-carbon-and-combat-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">marine environments</a>, they can control the population of harmful algal blooms, protecting marine life and fisheries. Giant viruses also influence microbial diversity and nutrient cycles, crucial for ecosystem health.



In biomedical research, their unique genetic makeup provides insights into virus evolution and the origins of life. Studying giant viruses can reveal new aspects of gene regulation and viral replication, potentially leading to breakthroughs in antiviral therapies. 



Additionally, these viruses might help in biotechnology, such as gene editing and synthetic biology, due to their large and versatile genomes.



Overall, giant viruses hold promise in various fields, from environmental science to medical research, offering new tools and perspectives for addressing global challenges.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://microbiomejournal.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s40168-024-01796-y" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Microbiome</a>.



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Giant viruses found on Arctic ice may help fight global warming

Each spring, as the warming Arctic sun pierces the long...

We all love a neatly manicured lawn. But what if frequently mowing the yard in our quest for tidiness is inadvertently creating a legion of superweeds? 



A recent study on the seemingly innocuous silverleaf nightshade (<a href="https://earthpedia.earth.com/plant-encyclopedia/angiosperms/solanaceae/solanum-elaeagnifolium/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Solanum elaeagnifolium</a>) has revealed a startling truth. 



This unassuming weed, along with dandelions and many others, is a master of adaptation, evolving into a tougher, more resilient <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/boosting-crop-colors-with-gene-editing-can-improve-weed-control/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">version of itself</a> when faced with frequent mowing.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-why-superweeds-like-mowing">Why superweeds like mowing</h2>



Superweeds are wild plants that develop resistance to herbicides. This resistance often results from the repeated use of the same herbicide, like glyphosate, on crops. 



As a consequence, these weeds can survive treatments meant to eliminate them, making them harder to control.



Genetically modified <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/boosting-crop-colors-with-gene-editing-can-improve-weed-control/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">(GM) crops</a>, designed to withstand herbicides, inadvertently contribute to the rise of superweeds. When these herbicides kill off non-resistant weeds, resistant ones thrive and spread.



Superweeds pose a significant threat to agriculture. They compete with crops for resources, leading to lower yields and higher costs for farmers. 



Controlling these weeds often requires stronger, more expensive herbicides or alternative management strategies, which can further harm the environment.



As superweeds continue to evolve, sustainable <a href="https://www.earth.com/video/weeds-are-becoming-increasingly-resistant-to-herbicides/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">weed management</a> practices and diversified farming techniques become crucial in mitigating their impact.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-unassuming-purple-weed-spreading-rapidly">Unassuming purple weed spreading rapidly</h2>



Silverleaf nightshade may not be a household name,&nbsp;but this pervasive weed is found from the sun-soaked fields of south Texas to the ancient landscapes of South Africa and Greece.&nbsp;



With its delicate purple flowers (sometimes white or light purple), prickly spines, and toxic berries, it's not a plant you want to mess with. 



Interestingly, it shares a family tree with some of our favorite crops, including <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/tomatoes-acylsugars-parallel-universe-plant-kingdom-evolution/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">tomatoes</a>, potatoes, peppers, and eggplants.



Rupesh Kariyat, an associate professor of entomology and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/bioengineered-super-plant-acts-as-natural-indoor-air-purifier/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">plant pathology</a>, has been studying this unassuming weed for over a decade. 



His research, which began at the <a href="https://www.utrgv.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Texas Rio Grande Valley</a>, has revealed some fascinating insights into the plant's response to frequent mowing.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-mowing-launches-survival-of-the-fittest-contest">Mowing launches "survival of the fittest" contest</h2>



Kariyat's research has found that frequent mowing doesn't just trim the silverleaf nightshade; it triggers a series of remarkable <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/scientists-capture-plant-communication-on-video/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">defense mechanisms</a>. 



"You are trying to mow these plants so that the plants are getting eliminated," Kariyat explains,&nbsp;"But what you are actually doing here,&nbsp;you are making them much worse,&nbsp;much stronger."



Under the pressure of frequent mowing, the plant's taproot burrows deeper into the soil, reaching depths of nearly 5 feet to access water and nutrients. 



More spikes sprout on its stem to deter hungry caterpillars, and the flowers themselves become more toxic, reducing the threat from <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/grazing-sheep-can-reduce-stress-on-college-campuses/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">natural predators</a>.



The plant even employs a clever strategy for seed germination, producing some that sprout quickly and others that lie dormant, like time bombs. 



This "staggered" germination ensures the plant's survival over the long haul, even in the face of repeated mowing.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-superweeds-spawn-from-mowing-ripple-effect">Superweeds spawn from mowing ripple effect</h2>



While Kariyat's research focused specifically on silverleaf nightshade, its findings have far-reaching implications. 



Other weeds, even close relatives of the <a href="https://www.earth.com/earthpedia-articles/is-deadly-nightshade-really-deadly-misnomers-of-the-botanical-world/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">nightshade</a>, may react similarly to frequent mowing, potentially creating a whole army of superweeds.



"This should be something that we consider when we make management plans," Kariyat warns.&nbsp;"Management practices need to be better understood using the ecology and biology of the species and the other species which interact with them."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-adaptation-of-silverleaf-nightshade">Adaptation of silverleaf nightshade</h2>



The silverleaf nightshade's response to mowing is a fascinating example of adaptation in action.&nbsp;It demonstrates the incredible resilience of nature and the unintended consequences of human intervention.



The plant's ability to evolve in response to environmental pressures is a testament to its tenacity and adaptability.&nbsp;It's a reminder that even the most unassuming organisms can possess remarkable survival skills.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-mowing-superweeds-requires-caution">Mowing superweeds requires caution</h2>



So, what does this mean for our manicured lawns? Should we abandon our mowers altogether? Not necessarily. 



Kariyat's research does suggest that we should approach mowing with a bit more caution and consider alternative weed management strategies.



For instance,&nbsp;tilling areas infested with silverleaf nightshade can actually worsen the problem by spreading the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/measuring-plant-root-health-scanning-leaves-xray-device/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">plant</a>'s rhizomic <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/deep-rooted-crops-can-significantly-improve-soil-carbon-storage/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">roots</a>,&nbsp;which can propagate asexually.



"As scientists, we want our research to be accessible and applicable to anyone, and mowing is a concept the world at large can understand," says Alejandro Vasquez, the lead author of the study and a Ph.D. student at the <a href="https://www.uark.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Arkansas</a>.



So, from now when you fire up your mower,&nbsp;spare a thought for the unassuming superweeds lurking in your lawn.&nbsp;They may be small,&nbsp;but they're far more resilient than you think.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41598-024-58672-w" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Scientific Reports</a>.



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Mowing your yard too often may create unstoppable 'superweeds'

We all love a neatly manicured lawn. But what if...

A recent investigation reveals a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/pollution-is-a-greater-health-threat-than-we-ever-imagined/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">concerning forecast</a> for ozone pollution levels across the United States by 2050, indicating potential non-compliance with air quality standards and increased public health risks.



This study paints a detailed picture of how <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/monsoons-launch-ozone-depleting-substances-into-the-stratosphere/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">climate-induced changes</a> could intensify ground-level ozone, a molecule composed of three oxygen atoms.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-is-ozone-pollution">What is ozone pollution?</h2>



Ozone pollution, also known as ground-level ozone, refers to the presence of ozone gas (O₃) in the Earth's lower atmosphere. Unlike the protective ozone layer in the stratosphere, ground-level ozone is a harmful pollutant. 



It forms when nitrogen oxides (NOx) and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) react in the presence of sunlight. Common sources of these pollutants include vehicle emissions, industrial facilities, and chemical solvents.



Ozone <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/short-term-pollution-claims-more-than-one-million-lives-per-year/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">pollution</a> poses significant health risks. It can cause respiratory problems, aggravate asthma, reduce lung function, and increase susceptibility to respiratory infections. 



Long-term exposure can lead to chronic respiratory diseases and even premature death. Additionally, ground-level ozone can harm ecosystems, damaging crops, forests, and wildlife.



Climate change exacerbates ozone pollution by increasing temperatures, which accelerates the chemical reactions that produce ozone. Efforts to control ozone levels focus on reducing NOx and VOC emissions through regulatory measures and technological advancements.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ozone-pollution-on-the-rise">Ozone pollution on the rise</h2>



Ground-level ozone isn't just a minor irritant; it's a major health hazard, linked to reduced lung function and airway inflammation, contributing to hundreds of thousands of deaths annually.



Study lead author James East, a former PhD student at <a href="https://www.ncsu.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">North Carolina State University</a>, is now a researcher at <a href="https://www.harvard.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Harvard University</a>.



"Climate change influences ozone formation through a myriad of factors. Predominantly, warmer temperatures correlate with ozone increases in already polluted areas. Furthermore, expected rises in naturally occurring VOC emissions, particularly in regions like the Southeast U.S., could worsen the situation," explained East.



The study, "Projecting Changes in the Frequency and Magnitude of Ozone Pollution Events Under Uncertain Climate Sensitivity," navigates through these complexities.



The research extends beyond mere predictions, incorporating various models and statistical tools to gauge future ozone pollution landscapes. In particular, the study explores how often (and by how much) ozone levels might exceed public health standards by mid-century.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-air-quality-thresholds">Air quality thresholds</h2>



The results of the study are presented as a range, acknowledging the ongoing debates among climate scientists about how drastically the climate reacts to greenhouse gas concentrations. 



"The best-case scenario, with low climate sensitivity to carbon dioxide, suggests an average increase in peak ozone levels by less than 0.3 parts per billion (ppb)," noted East. "This increase might still keep many areas within safe air quality thresholds."



However, East warns of a less optimistic outcome where the climate shows high sensitivity to carbon dioxide. 



Here, peak ozone levels could rise by more than 2.3 ppb on average, leading to a significant increase in days where ozone levels surpass <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/extreme-rainfall-gets-an-unpredictable-boost-from-air-pollution/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">air quality</a> norms.



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



The practical implications of these findings are stark. "Our study estimates that between 5 million and 13 million additional people could be exposed to dangerously high ozone levels by 2050," said East.



This projection is crucial for policymakers, especially those involved in the Environmental Protection Agency's ongoing review of the ozone <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/u-s-air-pollution-levels-have-dropped-but-not-for-everyone/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">air quality standards</a>.



Fernando Garcia Menendez, the study's corresponding author and an associate professor of environmental engineering at NC State, emphasized the broader significance of these insights.



"While state and federal governments strive to control ozone levels through emissions reductions, our findings suggest these efforts might be less effective in the future, particularly in areas already struggling to meet air quality standards," said Menendez.



"This research not only deepens our understanding of climate change's impact on air quality but also aids in refining the cost-benefit analyses of climate regulations and related technological advances."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-strategic-responses-to-ozone-challenges">Strategic responses to ozone challenges</h2>



This work underscores the need for a proactive approach in reviewing and possibly revising air quality standards to better protect public health in the face of evolving climate conditions.



By offering a clearer picture of the potential scenarios, the research arms policymakers with vital data to make informed decisions, potentially leading to more robust strategies to mitigate the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/antarctic-ozone-hole-exposes-wildlife-to-harmful-uv-radiation/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">adverse effects</a> of ozone pollution.



As climate patterns continue to shift, such studies will be pivotal in guiding effective responses to safeguard environmental and public health.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://agupubs.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1029/2023EF003941" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Earth's Future</a>.



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Ozone pollution will harm tens of millions of people at current pace

A recent investigation reveals a concerning forecast for ozone pollution...

Approximately two million species inhabit the world's oceans, but scientists have only described about 10% of them. With rising <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/earths-oceans-are-on-track-for-a-catastrophic-extinction-event/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">extinction</a> rates and global biodiversity threats, many species could vanish before being identified or their benefits understood.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-national-ocean-biodiversity-strategy-nbsp">National Ocean Biodiversity Strategy&nbsp;</h2>



The National Ocean Biodiversity Strategy, led by the <a href="https://www.si.edu/home" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Smithsonian</a> and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) has recently called for a more unified approach to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/marine-protected-areas-fall-short-on-2030-biodiversity-targets/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ocean conservation</a>. This strategy aims to enhance the ability of scientists to gather and share knowledge and use it for more effective protections.



“We are confronting <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/plankton-help-predict-ocean-biodiversity-losses/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">biodiversity loss</a> and its implications for human well-being, alongside the challenges posed by climate change and social inequity,” said Ellen Stofan, Under Secretary for Science and Research at the Smithsonian.&nbsp;



“But we hold the power to overcome these obstacles with a united, society-wide effort to preserve nature and its benefits.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ocean-benefits-will-degrade-with-biodiversity-loss-nbsp">Ocean benefits will degrade with biodiversity loss&nbsp;</h2>



The health and prosperity of the U.S. are closely tied to the ocean, contributing nearly $400 billion annually to the economy and providing 2.4 million jobs. The U.S. Exclusive Economic Zone, covering an area larger than all 50 states combined, benefits greatly from the ocean's diverse species and habitats.



“Life in the ocean touches everyone,” said Gabrielle Canonico, leader of the U.S. Marine Biodiversity Observation Network at NOAA and co-chair of the strategy team.&nbsp;



“Every other breath we take comes from the oxygen produced by microscopic ocean plants, and more than a billion people worldwide rely on food from the ocean as their primary source of protein. But these and other benefits will degrade with biodiversity loss, with dire consequences especially for frontline communities.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-critical-gaps-in-our-knowledge-of-ocean-wildlife">Critical gaps in our knowledge of ocean wildlife </h2>



Despite the ocean's vast benefits, critical gaps remain in the protection and knowledge of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/monitoring-ocean-life-through-underwater-soundscapes/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ocean life</a>. Current information is scattered across different organizations, making it difficult to share.&nbsp;



Many smaller organisms, crucial for maintaining ecosystems, are barely studied. The strategy aims to address this by strengthening the ocean observing system and information pipeline.



“We are advancing frontier technologies for biodiversity science and understanding,” said Sarah Kapnick, NOAA chief scientist. “But it is critical that we come together around the use of evidence-based metrics and indicators for decision-making in ocean spaces, and for monitoring, reporting, and verification to ensure that investments in conservation or development deliver the desired outcomes while minimizing negative impacts to ocean life.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ocean-biodiversity-is-in-trouble-nbsp">Ocean biodiversity is in trouble&nbsp;</h2>



“Biodiversity is the beating heart of the ocean that supports society, but it’s in trouble,” noted Emmett Duffy, chief scientist of <a href="https://serc.si.edu/research/projects/marinegeo" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">MarineGEO</a> at the Smithsonian Environmental Research Center and co-chair of the strategy team.&nbsp;



“This strategy is our best chance yet to turn the tide. We need to implement it to reach a future where people and the rest of nature thrive together by joining forces and leveraging the power of people and technology to understand the living ocean ecosystem.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-roadmap-to-a-more-sustainable-ocean">Roadmap to a more sustainable ocean</h2>



The National Ocean Biodiversity Strategy outlines a three-pronged plan to create a more inclusive, evidence-based network of protection in U.S. ocean waters and the Great Lakes:



<ul>
<li>Coordinate ocean research and conservation across the entire nation: This involves bringing together federal agencies with ocean-related missions to engage stakeholders, including states, Tribes, and local communities, to co-design solutions. Part of this process includes documenting the economic and cultural values of the ocean to reveal hidden costs of degrading nature and incorporating them into economic decision-making across government and private sectors.</li>



<li>Strengthen the U.S. information pipeline: The U.S. has a wealth of data on ocean life, but much of it is inaccessible to policymakers and managers. The strategy calls for stronger support of centralized, open-source databases accessible to all stakeholders. This also involves revamping taxonomy to reveal undiscovered species and using new technologies like <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/racing-boat-collects-edna-samples-on-a-round-the-world-sailing-competition/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">environmental DNA</a> (eDNA), satellites, and artificial intelligence to track biodiversity.</li>



<li>Conserve, restore, and sustainably use ocean biodiversity: Success hinges on partnerships with states, Tribes, local communities, NGOs, and the private sector. Listening sessions will help build collaborations based on trust, allowing managers to co-create protection measures that work long-term with community input.</li>
</ul>



According to the experts, this strategy is a high-level roadmap to a more sustainable ocean and a first step toward implementing a plan to outline specific actions tailored to regions and communities based on stakeholder feedback.



The full strategy can be found on the <a href="https://www.whitehouse.gov/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/NSTC_National-Ocean-Biodiversity-Strategy.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Office of Science and Technology Policy website</a>.



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World Ocean Day: A unified approach to protect biodiversity 

Approximately two million species inhabit the world's oceans, but scientists...

<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/air-pollution-will-increase-dramatically-in-a-hotter-climate/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Pollution</a> poses a greater health threat than war, terrorism, malaria, HIV, tuberculosis, drugs, and alcohol combined. This shocking revelation is discussed in a recent series of articles published in the <a href="https://www.jacc.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Journal of the American College of Cardiology</a>.



The experts, led by the <a href="https://www.ed.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Edinburgh</a> and the <a href="https://icahn.mssm.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai</a> focused on global warming, air pollution, wildfire smoke, and lesser-known pollutants like soil, noise, light, and toxic chemicals.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-bombarded-with-pollutants-nbsp">Bombarded with pollutants&nbsp;</h2>



“Every year around 20 million people worldwide die from <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/a-century-of-progress-in-the-fight-against-cardiovascular-disease/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cardiovascular disease</a> with pollutants playing an ever-increasing role,” said Jason Kovacic, Director and CEO of the Victor Chang Cardiac Research Institute.



“Pollutants have reached every corner of the globe and are affecting every one of us. We are witnessing unprecedented wildfires, soaring temperatures, unacceptable road noise and light pollution in our cities and exposure to untested toxic chemicals in our homes.”



“Our bodies are being bombarded with pollutants from every angle and they are taking a toll on our heart health. The evidence suggests that the number of people dying prematurely because of these very different forms of pollution is far higher than currently recognized.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-health-threats-of-pollution-nbsp">Health threats of pollution&nbsp;</h2>



Pollutants such as smoke and toxins, inhaled deeply into the respiratory tract, cause oxidative stress and damage organs, including the heart.&nbsp;



"Air pollution, a harmful mix of solid particles and gases, endangers human health worldwide. The World Health Organization estimates that 99% of the world’s population resides in places where air quality standards are not being met," wrote the study authors. 



Noise and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/artificial-light-pollution-disrupts-entire-ecological-networks/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">light pollution</a> affect sleep patterns, drive inflammation, and increase blood pressure and weight gain. Extreme heat can cause dehydration, cardiovascular strain, and acute kidney failure.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-pollution-and-heart-disease-nbsp">Pollution and heart disease&nbsp;</h2>



“Whilst many of these biological mechanisms are known, we still have a huge gap in our understanding of the link between pollutants and heart disease,” said Kovacic.



“There are hundreds of thousands of chemicals that haven’t even been tested for their safety or toxicity, let alone their impact on our health. We also need to discover if there are other risk factors that make people more susceptible – such as pre-existing conditions, lifestyle factors or where they live.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-exposure-to-pollution-nbsp">Exposure to pollution&nbsp;</h2>



According to the scientists, in the future, people should be routinely tested for exposure to more pollutants, just like children are now tested for lead exposure in the USA.



Unfortunately, while the environmental crisis is imminent, and its impact on health is increasingly noticed, the impetus for change seems to be sporadic.&nbsp;



“Urgent action is required as climate change strides forward and pollution infiltrates the air we breathe, the water we drink, the food we eat, and the places we live in,” noted the researchers.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-key-statistics-from-the-study-nbsp">Key statistics from the study&nbsp;</h2>



<ul>
<li>Outdoor and indoor air pollution account for over seven million premature deaths annually, with more than 50% due to cardiovascular causes like ischemic heart disease and stroke.</li>



<li>A fifth of all cardiovascular deaths are attributed to air pollution.</li>



<li>During <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/deadly-heat-waves-in-europe-can-be-predicted-by-melting-sea-ice/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">heat waves</a>, the risk of heat-related cardiovascular mortality may increase by more than 10%. </li>



<li>In the USA, exposure to wildfire smoke has increased by 77% since 2002.</li>



<li>Globally, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/wildfire-smoke-is-an-underestimated-threat-to-public-health/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">wildfire smoke</a> is estimated to cause 339,000 to 675,000 premature deaths per year.</li>



<li>Over 300,000 new synthetic chemicals have been created since 1950, many of which have unknown safety profiles.</li>



<li>In Europe, 113 million people are affected by long-term <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/traffic-noise-increases-the-risk-of-hypertension/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">traffic noise</a> levels of at least 55 dB(A).</li>
</ul>



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



The researchers call for urgent action, such as implementing heart-healthy urban design, such as increasing tree cover and promoting active travel. They also call for ending subsidies to the fossil fuel industry to invest in renewables and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/clean-energy-transition-may-boost-job-opportunities-in-the-u-s/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cleaner energy</a>.



The experts also point out the need for launching public health campaigns about the dangers of air pollution and enhancing medical education to address pollution-related health risks.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-combating-the-health-threats-of-pollution-nbsp">Combating the health threats of pollution&nbsp;</h2>



To combat the health threats of pollution, the study advocates for better monitoring of pollutants, understanding their impacts on cardiovascular disease, and identifying vulnerable communities.&nbsp;



The hope is that by recognizing and addressing these dangers, society can mitigate the severe health impacts of pollution on a global scale.



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Pollution is a greater health threat than we ever imagined

Pollution poses a greater health threat than war, terrorism, malaria,...

The planet just experienced a “shocking” new milestone, enduring 12 consecutive months of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/world-environment-day-humans-are-warming-the-planet-faster-than-ever-before/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">unprecedented heat</a>, according to <a href="https://www.copernicus.eu/en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Copernicus</a>, the European Union’s climate monitoring service. From June 2023 to May 2024, each month set a new record for the hottest such month globally.  



This streak of extreme heat, driven by human-caused climate change, was described as “shocking but not surprising” by Carlo Buontempo, Copernicus' director, who warned of worse to come unless fossil fuel pollution is significantly reduced.&nbsp;



Buontempo emphasized that without drastic action, this series of hottest months could be seen as relatively cool in the future.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-on-the-highway-to-climate-hell">On the highway to climate hell</h2>



On the same day, UN Secretary General António Guterres delivered a passionate speech in New York about climate change, criticizing fossil fuel companies as “the godfathers of climate chaos” and for the first time explicitly calling for a global ban on advertising <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/air-pollution-from-fossil-fuels-kills-5-million-people-each-year/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">fossil fuel</a> products. 



Guterres urged world leaders to take immediate action to manage the escalating climate crisis. He compared humanity's current trajectory to playing “Russian roulette with our planet” and called for an “exit ramp off the highway to climate hell.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-more-severe-climate-impacts-to-come">More severe climate impacts to come </h2>



Copernicus data showed that each month since July 2023 has been at least 1.5 degrees Celsius warmer than pre-industrial levels, with the average global temperature over the past year being 1.63 degrees above these levels.&nbsp;



This alarming breach signals progressively more dangerous climate impacts on the horizon.&nbsp;



According to Richard Allan, a climate professor at the <a href="https://www.reading.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Reading</a>, this is just a harbinger of more severe impacts to come.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-heat-waves-and-extreme-weather">Heat waves and extreme weather</h2>



The western United States is experiencing its first heat wave of the summer, with temperatures reaching triple digits.&nbsp;



Globally, unprecedented heat has already caused significant mortality and damage this spring. India, Southeast Asia, and Mexico have all faced extreme temperatures leading to deaths, school closures, and crop failures.&nbsp;



<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-will-climate-change-affect-extreme-weather-events/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Extreme weather</a> events, such as heavy rainfall and destructive storms, have also battered various countries this year, exacerbated by warmer air and ocean temperatures.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-window-into-the-future-of-our-climate">Window into the future of our climate </h2>



Ben Clarke, a researcher at <a href="https://www.imperial.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Imperial College London</a>'s Grantham Institute, argued that the recent heat offers “a window into the future,” with extreme temperatures challenging human survivability. 



Clarke stressed the importance of understanding that each tenth of a degree of warming exposes more people to dangerous and potentially deadly heat.



Guterres, in his speech, compared humanity's impact on the planet to the meteor that caused the extinction of the dinosaurs. “We are the meteor. We are not only in danger. We are the danger,” he warned.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-global-warming-trend-will-continue-nbsp">Global warming trend will continue&nbsp;</h2>



Global temperatures are expected to dip below record-breaking levels in the coming months as the natural climate phenomenon <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/el-nino-event-may-push-earth-towards-its-hottest-year-ever/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">El Niño</a> weakens. However, this will not alter the long-term trend of rising temperatures due to continuous fossil fuel combustion. 



Carlo Buontempo noted that while the sequence of record-breaking months may be interrupted, the overall trend of climate change remains unaltered.



New data from the <a href="https://wmo.int/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">World Meteorological Organization</a> (WMO) referenced by Guterres indicates a nearly 86% chance that at least one year between 2024 and 2028 will set a new record for the hottest year. 



Additionally, there is almost a 50% chance that the global average temperature over the five-year period will exceed 1.5 degrees above pre-industrial levels, inching closer to breaching the long-term limit set by the Paris Agreement.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-fossil-fuel-companies-are-to-blame-for-the-crisis">Fossil fuel companies are to blame for the crisis</h2>



Guterres blamed fossil fuel companies for the impending climate hell, stating that they “rake in record profits and feast off trillions in taxpayer-funded subsidies” while distorting the truth and deceiving the public. He called for a global ban on fossil fuel ads, similar to bans on advertising harmful products like tobacco.



Guterres concluded by urging world leaders to take immediate action, including drastic cuts in greenhouse gas emissions and an end to new coal projects. He pressed rich countries to commit to phasing out coal by 2030, reducing oil and gas by 60% by 2035, and increasing financial support for the poorest and most climate-vulnerable nations.&nbsp;



“We cannot accept a future where the rich are protected in air-conditioned bubbles, while the rest of humanity is lashed by lethal weather in unliveable lands,” said Guterres.



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UN chief: We are on the ‘highway to climate hell’ 

The planet just experienced a “shocking” new milestone, enduring 12...

<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



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Satellites reveal how Earth's systems are interconnected

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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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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