<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>.



-----



Like what you read?<a href="https://www.earth.com/subscribe/"> Subscribe to our newsletter</a> for engaging articles, exclusive content, and the latest updates.&nbsp;



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



-----

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...

Anyone living along a coastline knows the threat of a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/hurricanes-will-increase-in-frequency-on-the-gulf-coast/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">hurricane</a>. These swirling storms of destruction pack incredible wind, torrential rain, and perilous storm surges. People constantly worry about the damage coastal hurricanes can do. 



Unfortunately, a new study led by the <a href="https://www.energy.gov" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Department of Energy</a>'s Pacific Northwest National Laboratory (<a href="https://www.pnnl.gov" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">PNNL</a>) reveals that hurricanes are changing – and not in a good way. Since 1979, coastal hurricanes around the world have been intensifying faster and they're only going to get worse thanks to climate change.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-factors-causing-hurricanes">Factors causing hurricanes</h2>



A hurricane is a massive, rotating storm system characterized by intense low pressure, powerful winds, and heavy rainfall. Hurricanes form over warm ocean waters near the equator in several stages. 



Warm ocean water evaporates, creating hotter, moist air that rises rapidly into the atmosphere. As this air rises, it cools and condenses, forming massive storm clouds and releasing huge amounts of energy. This energy powers the hurricane's destructive winds.



Due to the Earth's rotation (called the Coriolis effect), this rising air begins to swirl in a giant, rotating pattern. At the center of this swirling storm system is the "eye" of the hurricane – a deceptively calm area of low pressure. The strongest winds and heaviest rain occur in the "eyewall" surrounding the eye.



Several key factors play a role in how strong a hurricane becomes:



<ul>
<li>Ocean temperatures:&nbsp;The warmer the ocean water, the more evaporation occurs, providing more fuel and energy to the storm.</li>



<li>Atmospheric moisture:&nbsp;Hurricanes thrive in areas of high humidity. The more moisture in the air, the more potential for heavy rainfall and storm intensification.</li>



<li>Wind shear:&nbsp;Wind shear refers to changes in wind speed and direction at different altitudes of Earth's atmosphere. Low wind shear allows a hurricane to maintain its organized structure, promoting strengthening.</li>
</ul>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-s-changing-with-hurricanes">What's changing with hurricanes?</h2>



The PNNL study has revealed several worrying facts:



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-alarming-pace-of-coastal-hurricanes">Alarming pace of coastal hurricanes</h3>



Hurricanes, particularly those close to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/coastal-areas-major-storms/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">coastlines</a>, are now intensifying at an alarmingly fast rate. In the past, a hurricane might have increased its wind strength gradually. Today, a hurricane can become significantly more powerful within a very short period.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-global-threat">A global threat</h3>



This rapid intensification isn't just happening in one part of the world. Coastal areas across the globe are facing the escalating risk of rapidly intensifying <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/definitive-link-found-between-intensity-of-early-hurricanes-and-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">hurricanes</a>.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-role-of-climate-change">The role of climate change </h3>



Scientists have determined that the primary driver of this dangerous trend is climate change. As the planet continues to warm due to human activities, the conditions that favor rapid hurricane intensification become more prevalent and severe.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-rapid-intensification-of-coastal-hurricane">Rapid intensification of coastal hurricane</h2>



Let's make this clearer with an example. Before the year 2000, a typical hurricane might begin with a certain wind speed and then intensify by around 1.5 knots (nautical miles per hour) over a 24-hour period. After 2000, that same hurricane could increase its wind speed by a worrying 4.5 knots during the same time frame.



"We're not talking about intensification out in the middle of the ocean," said study lead author and climate scientist Karthik Balaguru. "We're talking about it happening right at the coastline, where it matters most."



This rapid intensification near the coast is terrible news because it gives people less time to prepare and evacuate. The potential for devastating damage from high winds, flooding, and brutal storm surges increases dramatically.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-why-are-coastal-hurricanes-getting-worse">Why are coastal hurricanes getting worse?</h2>



The scientists behind this study point to two critical factors behind the increase in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/hurricanes-will-continue-to-become-more-intense/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">hurricane</a> intensification:



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-increased-humidity">Increased humidity</h3>



As the atmosphere warms due to climate change, the air's capacity to hold water vapor increases. This leads to higher levels of humidity in hurricane-prone regions.



Hurricanes essentially use moisture as fuel. This excess moisture in the air gets absorbed by the storm system, and when it condenses, it releases massive amounts of energy. The released energy intensifies the hurricane's destructive winds and increases its rainfall potential.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-weakened-wind-shear">Weakened wind shear</h3>



Wind shear describes the difference in wind speeds and directions at varying altitudes in the atmosphere. Think of it as layers of air moving at different speeds or in different directions.



Strong wind shear can disrupt the organized structure of a hurricane, essentially tearing it apart and limiting its intensification. However, climate change is causing wind shear to weaken across the globe, particularly near coastlines.



This diminishing wind shear allows <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/akara-rare-tropical-storm-develops-off-the-coast-of-brazil/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">hurricanes</a> to maintain their structure and intensify more easily. It's essentially removing a natural barrier that would have otherwise helped limit the hurricane's strength.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-worrying-forecast">A worrying forecast</h2>



"This work holds profound implications for people living on the coast, as well as operational forecasters and decision-makers," said study co-author and Earth scientist Ruby Leung. "The rising intensification rates we observed could mean that landfalling hurricanes are on track to grow stronger and thus more destructive. It's important that we understand how the risks posed by these storms could change as our climate changes."



There's positive news on the scientific front. Researchers are diligently working to improve our understanding of these changes in hurricane behavior. This includes refining climate models to predict future hurricane activity and developing more sophisticated forecasting techniques to provide earlier and more accurate warnings.



However, the reality remains concerning. The data suggests a clear trend – coastal areas are becoming increasingly vulnerable to more powerful hurricanes. While advancements in forecasting are crucial, we must acknowledge this heightened risk.



Unfortunately, for those living in hurricane-prone areas, the potential consequences of these stronger storms are significant. It's vital for individuals and communities to take proactive steps to prepare for these potential threats. This includes creating comprehensive emergency plans, assembling disaster kits, and staying informed about local weather advisories.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-it-s-not-just-coastal-hurricanes">It's not just coastal hurricanes</h2>



Another recent study led by PNNL's Karthik Balaguru investigated surprising links between hurricanes and wildfires. 



While it might seem strange that these two disasters could be connected, the research showed that hurricanes originating in the Eastern Pacific Ocean could sometimes dampen wildfire risk in the Southwestern United States by bringing much-needed rain and moisture. 



Unfortunately, climate change might reduce the frequency of these storms, increasing the risk of wildfires in the region.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-can-we-do">What can we do?</h2>



Facing the growing threat of more intense hurricanes, it's easy to feel overwhelmed. However, the most important thing is awareness and preparedness. This means:



<ul>
<li>Know Your Risk:&nbsp;Find out if you live in a hurricane-prone area. Local authorities will usually have excellent information available.</li>



<li>Have a Plan:&nbsp;Prepare an emergency plan for your family, including how you'll communicate and where you might evacuate.</li>



<li>Prepare an Emergency Kit:&nbsp;Stock up on supplies for if you must stay home during or after a storm.</li>



<li>Stay Informed:&nbsp;Pay attention to weather forecasts and warnings issued by the authorities.</li>
</ul>



Studies like the one conducted by PNNL scientists can improve our ability to model and predict increasingly powerful hurricanes and help save lives with more accurate forecasts.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://agupubs.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1029/2023EF004230" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Earth's Future</a>.



-----



Like what you read? <a href="https://www.earth.com/subscribe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Subscribe to our newsletter</a> for engaging articles, exclusive content, and the latest updates.&nbsp;



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



-----

Coastal hurricanes are intensifying faster due to climate change

Anyone living along a coastline knows the threat of a...

Researchers at the <a href="https://ucsd.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of California San Diego</a> have developed an innovative biodegradable thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU), commonly used in products like footwear and memory foam. 



This new <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/bioplastics-are-just-as-toxic-as-traditional-plastics/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">bioplastic</a>, which incorporates bacterial spores capable of decomposing the material at the end of its life cycle, represents a significant advancement in efforts to reduce the environmental footprint of the plastic industry. According to the experts, this development could transform the way commercial plastics are viewed in terms of environmental sustainability.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-biodegradable-living-plastic">Biodegradable living plastic</h2>



Thermoplastic polyurethane is valued for its soft yet durable properties, but its resistance to natural decomposition poses environmental challenges. The scientists aimed to address this issue by embedding spores from the bacterium Bacillus subtilis into the plastic. These spores can break down polymer materials, a feature that the team capitalized on.&nbsp;



“It’s an inherent property of these bacteria. We took a few strains and evaluated their ability to use TPUs as a sole carbon source, then picked the one that grew the best,” said Jon Pokorski, a nanoengineering professor at the UC San Diego.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-remarkably-biodegradable-plastic-nbsp">Remarkably biodegradable plastic&nbsp;</h2>



The process involved feeding Bacillus subtilis spores and TPU pellets into a plastic extruder, where they were mixed and melted at 135 degrees Celsius and then extruded as thin strips.&nbsp;



To test the material’s <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/biodegradable-breakthrough-plastics-that-wont-make-us-sick/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">biodegradability</a>, these strips were placed in both microbially active and sterile compost environments maintained at 37 degrees Celsius. The water and nutrients in the compost activated the spores, which facilitated the plastic's degradation. Remarkably, the strips achieved 90% degradation within five months. 



“What’s remarkable is that our material breaks down even without the presence of additional <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/some-microbes-from-earth-could-survive-the-conditions-on-mars/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">microbes</a>. Chances are, most of these plastics will likely not end up in microbially rich composting facilities. So this ability to self-degrade in a microbe-free environment makes our technology more versatile,” Pokorski said.



The safety of the degradation process is supported by the benign nature of Bacillus subtilis, which is not only used in probiotics but is also generally regarded as safe for humans and animals and beneficial to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/big-data-plant-health/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">plant health</a>. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-adapting-the-bacterial-spores-nbsp">Adapting the bacterial spores&nbsp;</h2>



Addressing the durability and safety of the process, the researchers adapted the bacterial spores to withstand the high temperatures necessary for plastic production using adaptive laboratory evolution.&nbsp;



“We continually evolved the cells over and over again until we arrived at a strain that is optimized to tolerate the heat,” explained co-senior author Adam Feist, a bioengineering research scientist at UC San Diego.



Moreover, the spores serve a dual function by also acting as a strengthening filler within the plastic, which is comparable to how rebar reinforces concrete.&nbsp;



“Both of these properties are greatly improved just by adding the spores,” Pokorski said. “This is great because the addition of spores pushes the mechanical properties beyond known limitations where there was previously a trade off between tensile strength and stretchability.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-scaling-up-the-technology">Scaling up the technology</h2>



While the research currently focuses on laboratory-scale production, the team is actively working to scale up the technology for industrial application and extend it to other types of plastics.&nbsp;



“There are many different kinds of commercial plastics that end up in the environment - TPU is just one of them. One of our next steps is to broaden the scope of biodegradable materials we can make with this technology,” concluded Feist.&nbsp;



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



Biodegradable plastic is a type of plastic designed to decompose naturally in the environment under the action of living organisms, primarily bacteria.&nbsp;



Unlike traditional plastics, which can take hundreds of years to break down and can leave harmful residues, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/biodegradable-breakthrough-plastics-that-wont-make-us-sick/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">biodegradable</a> plastics are made from natural materials such as corn starch, sugarcane, or other plant-based substances. These materials enable the plastic to break down more quickly and safely when exposed to natural elements like heat, moisture, and microorganisms.



The production and use of biodegradable plastics are seen as environmentally friendly alternatives to conventional plastics because they are derived from renewable resources and are intended to reduce the accumulation of waste in landfills and oceans.&nbsp;



However, the effectiveness of biodegradation depends on specific conditions such as temperature and the presence of microbes, which can vary widely in different environments.&nbsp;



This means that while these plastics are designed to degrade in industrial composting facilities, they may not break down as efficiently in cooler, less active composting settings or in natural environments, leading to potential misunderstandings about their environmental benefits.



The study is published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1038/s41467-024-47132-8" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature Communications</a>.



-----



Like what you read? <a href="https://www.earth.com/subscribe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Subscribe to our newsletter</a> for engaging articles, exclusive content, and the latest updates.



Check us out on <a href="https://www.earth.com/earthsnap/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">EarthSnap</a>, a free app brought to you by <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/eric-ralls/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Eric Ralls</a> and Earth.com.



-----

Biodegradable ‘living plastic’ contains bacterial spores that break it down

Researchers at the University of California San Diego have developed...

In a world where coral reefs are under constant threat from various stressors, scientists are searching for effective ways to protect and preserve these <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/massive-study-provides-answers-to-how-coral-reefs-can-survive-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">vital ecosystems</a>. A recent study has shed light on a promising approach: targeted surveillance and culling of crown-of-thorns starfish (<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/crown-of-thorns-starfish-are-natures-ultimate-coral-predators-and-they-are-winning/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">CoTS</a>).



The research, conducted by scientists from the <a href="https://www2.gbrmpa.gov.au/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority</a> reveals that timely and sufficient control efforts during CoTS outbreaks can lead to a significant reduction in starfish numbers and a substantial increase in coral cover across impacted regions.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">What are crown-of-thorns starfish?</h2>



The crown-of-thorns starfish (Acanthaster cf. solaris) is a large, predatory starfish that inhabits <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/satellites-discover-huge-expanse-of-earths-coral-reefs-that-were-previously-unknown/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">coral reefs</a> in the Indo-Pacific region. It gets its name from the venomous spines that cover its upper surface, resembling a crown. These starfish can grow up to 40 cm in diameter and have up to 21 arms.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Feeding habits</h3>



Crown-of-thorns starfish feed on coral polyps, using their extrudable stomachs to digest the coral tissue. A single starfish can consume up to 6 square meters of coral per year. 



In normal populations, these starfish play a role in maintaining coral diversity by preying on faster-growing coral species. However, when their populations reach outbreak levels, they can cause significant damage to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/coral-superhighway-connects-remote-coral-reefs-seychelles/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">coral reefs</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-threat-posed-by-crown-of-thorns-starfish">Threat posed by crown-of-thorns starfish</h2>



Crown-of-thorns starfish (Acanthaster cf. solaris) are native to coral reefs, as mentioned previously, but their outbreaks pose a major threat to coral health and resilience. 



These outbreaks, along with other stressors such as coral bleaching, cyclones, and anthropogenic disturbances, contribute to the decline and degradation of coral reefs worldwide.



A single crown-of-thorns starfish, measuring a meter in diameter, can consume up to 10 square meters of coral annually. 



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Factors contributing to outbreaks</h3>



Several factors can contribute to crown-of-thorns starfish outbreaks:



<ul>
<li>Nutrient enrichment: Runoff from agricultural and urban areas can increase nutrient levels in the ocean, promoting the growth of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/plankton-help-predict-ocean-biodiversity-losses/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">phytoplankton</a>, which serves as food for crown-of-thorns starfish larvae.</li>
</ul>



<ul>
<li>Overfishing: The removal of natural predators, such as triton snails and humphead wrasse, can allow crown-of-thorns starfish populations to grow unchecked.</li>
</ul>



<ul>
<li>Larval survival: Environmental conditions that favor the survival and settlement of crown-of-thorns starfish larvae can lead to increased recruitment and population growth.</li>
</ul>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-power-of-targeted-culling">Power of targeted culling</h2>



To address this issue, the research team focused their efforts on the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/recent-coral-recovery-in-the-great-barrier-reef-has-paused/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Great Barrier Reef</a>, engaging in a culling program from 2012 to 2022. 



They targeted 500 out of the park's 3,000 reefs, identifying individual crown-of-thorns starfish and injecting them with vinegar or ox bile, which not only killed the starfish but also prevented them from releasing larvae.



The results of this targeted culling were remarkable. In the areas where culling was conducted, the researchers observed a 44% increase in coral reef coverage. In contrast, nearby parts of the reef where no culling had occurred continued to experience unabated coral loss.



Furthermore, the team discovered that culling starfish in specifically targeted areas dramatically reduced the spread of larvae, effectively preventing outbreaks in other reefs.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-pest-management-approach-to-crown-of-thorns-starfish">Pest management approach to crown-of-thorns starfish</h2>



The researchers describe their effort as similar to pest management. As human activities have allowed starfish populations to explode, the need has arisen to cull them to protect the health and resilience of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/coral-nurseries-need-protection-equal-to-that-of-established-coral-reefs/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">coral reefs</a>.



"Anthropogenically-driven disturbances are superimposing additional stressors upon the natural cycles of decline and recovery inherent to coral reef ecosystems," the researchers wrote in their paper. "Major drivers of coral mortality on Indo-Pacific coral reefs are cyclones, coral bleaching events, and outbreaks of crown-of-thorns starfish."



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



The test program conducted by the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority has demonstrated that culling crown-of-thorns starfish can be an effective tool in helping to save not only the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/study-finds-chlamydia-like-bacteria-in-great-barrier-reef-corals/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Great Barrier Reef</a> but also other reefs around the world.



The study found that "timely and sufficient control efforts during CoTS outbreaks resulted in a sixfold reduction in starfish numbers and a 44% increase in coral cover across impacted regions."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-desperate-times-desperate-measures">Desperate times, desperate measures</h2>



In summary, the targeted surveillance and culling of crown-of-thorns starfish have proven to be a powerful tool in the fight to save coral reefs from destruction. 



By proactively identifying and eliminating these coral-consuming predators, scientists have demonstrated that they can significantly reduce starfish numbers, prevent the spread of larvae, and promote the recovery of coral reefs. 



As we continue to face the challenges posed by climate change and human activities, this research offers a glimmer of hope for the future of these vital ecosystems. 



It is now up to us to support and expand these efforts, working together to protect and preserve the beauty and biodiversity of our world's coral reefs for generations to come.



The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://journals.plos.org/plosone/article?id=10.1371/journal.pone.0298073" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">PLoS One</a>.



-----



Like what you read? <a href="https://www.earth.com/subscribe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Subscribe to our newsletter</a> for engaging articles, exclusive content, and the latest updates.



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



-----

Killing crown-of-thorns starfish could save the Great Barrier Reef

In a world where coral reefs are under constant threat...

Methane emissions from landfills, urban areas, and across several U.S. states are substantially underestimated by the <a href="https://www.epa.gov/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Environmental Protection Agency</a> (EPA). This is the conclusion of a study by researchers at the <a href="https://seas.harvard.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Harvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences </a>(SEAS).



The experts used advanced satellite data from 2019 combined with an atmospheric transport model to create a detailed map of methane <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/wetland-methane-emissions-have-surged-at-high-latitudes/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">emissions</a> across the United States. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-underestimated-methane-emissions">Underestimated methane emissions</h2>



The analysis showed that emissions from <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/landfills-emit-exorbitant-amount-methane-into-atmosphere/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">landfills</a> were 51% higher than EPA estimates for the same year. In addition, methane emissions from urban areas were 39% higher, while those from the ten highest methane-emitting states were 27% higher compared to EPA estimates.



“Methane is the second largest contributor to climate change behind carbon dioxide so it’s really important that we quantify methane emissions at the highest possible resolution to pinpoint what sources it is coming from,” said lead author Hannah Nesser, a former PhD student at SEAS and currently a NASA Postdoctoral Program (NPP) Fellow in the Carbon Cycle &amp; Ecosystems Group at the <a href="https://www.jpl.nasa.gov/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Jet Propulsion Laboratory</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-underreporting-in-methane-emissions-nbsp">Underreporting in methane emissions&nbsp;</h2>



The study reveals a significant underreporting in methane emissions, particularly from landfills, which the EPA ranks as the third-largest source of human-caused methane emissions in the United States.



The EPA's method relies on self-reported data from facilities that emit high levels of greenhouse gasses and uses a formula based on the volume of trash received to estimate emissions. This bottom-up approach is often inconsistent with top-down observational data gathered from atmospheric measurements.



“Our research shows that these facilities are losing more methane than they think,” Nesser said. “The EPA uses 75% efficacy as the default for methane collection, but we find that it’s actually much closer to 50%.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-discrepancies-in-epa-models">Discrepancies in EPA models</h2>



Moreover, the scientists found that occasional events like construction or temporary leaks at landfill sites, which can significantly increase methane emissions, are not adequately accounted for in the EPA’s models.&nbsp;



The study also highlighted discrepancies at the state level, particularly in Texas, Louisiana, Florida, and Oklahoma, which are among the top methane emitters. Notably, Texas alone is responsible for 21% of U.S. anthropogenic methane emissions, largely due to its extensive <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/methane-leaks-in-us-oil-and-gas-hit-10-billion-in-economic-losses/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">oil and gas industry</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-methane-emissions-from-cities">Methane emissions from cities</h2>



The scientists also discovered that methane emissions in the 10 cities with the highest levels of urban methane output are, on average, 58% greater than what was previously estimated. These cities include New York, Detroit, Atlanta, Dallas, Houston, Chicago, Los Angeles, Cincinnati, Miami, and Philadelphia.



“All of these places have a different profile of emission sources, so there’s no one thing driving the methane underestimate across the board,” Nesser said.



“This research highlights the importance of understanding these emissions,” added senior author Daniel Jacob, a professor of atmospheric chemistry and environmental engineering at SEAS. “We plan to continue to monitor U.S. emissions of methane using new high-resolution satellite observations, and to work with the EPA to improve emission inventories.”



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



The implications of these findings are significant, urging a reevaluation of how methane emissions are estimated and reported. Accurate data is crucial for effective environmental policy-making and for strategies aimed at mitigating <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/humanity-should-brace-for-catastrophic-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">climate change</a>. 



By refining how methane emissions are measured, researchers hope to foster better regulatory practices and more effective mitigation strategies to combat this potent greenhouse gas.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-dangers-of-methane-nbsp">Dangers of methane&nbsp;</h2>



Methane is a potent greenhouse gas, considerably more effective at trapping heat in the atmosphere than carbon dioxide, especially in the short term. Its significant impact on global warming makes it a critical concern for climate change.&nbsp;



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-sources">Sources</h3>



Methane emissions come from a variety of sources, including the decay of organic waste in landfills, agriculture (especially from the digestive processes of grazing animals), and the production and transport of coal, oil, and natural gas.



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



One of the dangers of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/discovery-massive-amounts-of-methane-gas-spews-from-wildfires/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">methane</a> is its ability to rapidly accelerate climate change. It has a much higher heat-trapping capability per molecule compared to carbon dioxide, so even small amounts can have a significant effect on atmospheric temperatures. 



This contributes to the increasing global temperatures, which can lead to more severe weather events, melting polar ice, rising sea levels, and disrupting ecosystems.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ground-level-ozone">Ground-level ozone</h3>



Furthermore, methane contributes to the formation of ground-level ozone, a harmful air pollutant. Exposure to ozone can lead to serious respiratory health issues and other health problems in humans and animals. It also affects crops and other vegetation, potentially reducing agricultural yields.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-reducing-methane-emissions-nbsp">Reducing methane emissions&nbsp;</h3>



The short atmospheric lifetime of methane - about 12 years - compared to carbon dioxide, however, means that taking action to reduce methane emissions can quickly benefit the atmosphere. Thus, addressing methane leaks and emissions is seen as a crucial and effective strategy for slowing the rate of global warming in the near term.&nbsp;



Efforts to capture methane from sources like landfills and livestock operations can not only mitigate the effects on climate change but also harness methane as a source of energy, providing a cleaner alternative to other fossil fuels.



The study is published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.5194/acp-24-5069-2024" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Atmospheric Chemistry and Physics</a>.



-----



Like what you read? <a href="https://www.earth.com/subscribe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Subscribe to our newsletter</a> for engaging articles, exclusive content, and the latest updates.



Check us out on <a href="https://www.earth.com/earthsnap/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">EarthSnap</a>, a free app brought to you by <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/eric-ralls/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Eric Ralls</a> and Earth.com.



-----

Methane emissions are greatly underestimated by the EPA

Methane emissions from landfills, urban areas, and across several U.S....

The insidious reach of plastic <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/plastic-production-increases-create-identical-plastic-pollution-increase/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">pollution</a> extends far beyond our oceans and landfills. Disturbing new research reveals that with every breath we take, we might be inhaling tiny fragments of plastic in air known as microplastics and nanoplastics. 



A recent study led by Dr. Suvash Saha at the <a href="https://www.uts.edu.au" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Technology Sydney</a> uncovers the path these minuscule pollutants take within our bodies and the potential health risks they pose.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-micro-and-nanoplastics">Micro and nanoplastics</h2>



Microplastics are tiny pieces of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/can-we-win-the-battle-of-planet-vs-plastic-drastic-changes-are-needed/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">plastic</a> that measure less than 5 millimeters in size (think of a sesame seed for comparison). They originate from two primary sources. 



First, larger plastic products like bottles, bags, and other packaging can break down over time due to sunlight, heat, and general wear and tear. This process creates smaller and smaller plastic fragments. 



In addition, microplastics are sometimes intentionally manufactured and added to products such as cosmetics (think of those tiny microbeads in face washes) and certain industrial materials.



Nanoplastics are substantially smaller than microplastics. They're so incredibly tiny that they are measured in nanometers, which are equivalent to one-billionth of a meter. Their minuscule size makes nanoplastics particularly challenging to detect and study. Scientists are still actively investigating the specific origins of nanoplastics. 



Some potential sources include the continued breakdown of microplastics into even smaller pieces or release during specific manufacturing or waste disposal processes.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-plastic-is-present-in-every-breath">Plastic is present in every breath</h2>



"<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/plastics-treaty-talks-slow-progress-yet-restored-hope/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Plastic</a> particle air pollution is now pervasive and inhalation ranks as the second most likely pathway for human exposure," said Dr. Saha. 



It is an indiscriminate problem, meaning it affects environments everywhere, not just specific locations. Research has shown that contamination with microplastics and nanoplastics is widespread in both indoor and outdoor settings. 



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-indoor-environments">Indoor environments </h3>



Synthetic fibers from clothing, carpets, and furniture can easily shed tiny plastic particles into the air. Additionally, personal care products containing microplastics, or the breakdown of other plastic items within the home, also contribute to indoor plastic pollution.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-outdoor-environments">Outdoor environments</h3>



The outdoors is exposed to a wide range of plastic pollution sources. Microplastics can be carried by wind and water from landfills and other waste disposal sites. Tire wear from vehicles releases plastic particles into the air. Plus, larger plastic debris exposed to the elements can fragment into microplastics and nanoplastics over time.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-modeling-plastic-presence-and-breathing">Modeling plastic presence and breathing</h2>



Since directly observing the movement of micro and nanoplastics inside the human body is incredibly difficult, the UTS research team created advanced computer models. These models meticulously replicate the complex structure and function of the respiratory system (nose, throat, lungs, etc.). By simulating how air and particles flow through these virtual lungs, the models provide valuable insights into:



<ul>
<li>Deposition patterns:&nbsp;Where the inhaled plastic particles are likely to become lodged within the respiratory system.</li>



<li>Factors influencing deposition:&nbsp;How characteristics like particle size, shape, and breathing patterns affect where the particles end up.</li>
</ul>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-breathing-in-plastics-in-air">Breathing in plastics in air</h2>



The study revealed several important insights:



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-breathing-patterns-play-a-role-in-plastic-deposition">Breathing patterns play a role in plastic deposition</h3>



<ul>
<li>Fast breathing:&nbsp;When you breathe rapidly, air moves quickly through your nose and throat. This can cause larger <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ocean-plastic-pollution-has-become-a-global-crisis/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">plastic</a> particles to get 'caught' in the upper respiratory tract, preventing them from going deeper into the lungs.</li>



<li>Slow breathing:&nbsp;Slower breathing allows smaller plastic particles, especially nanoplastics, more time to travel further into the respiratory system and potentially reach the delicate structures deep within the lungs.</li>
</ul>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-shape-influences-deposition">Shape influences deposition</h3>



Plastic particles come in various shapes, not just spheres. Research suggests that irregularly shaped plastic fragments may be better at slipping past the body's natural filtering mechanisms within the respiratory system. This could allow them to reach more sensitive areas deep in the lungs.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-accumulation-hotspots">Accumulation hotspots</h3>



The computer models used in the study helped identify specific locations within the respiratory system where inhaled plastic particles are prone to accumulate. This is important because the buildup of plastic in these areas could eventually lead to health problems.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-potential-health-hazards-of-breathing-plastic">Potential health hazards of breathing plastic</h2>



Dr. Saha stresses that research is increasingly pointing towards a connection between breathing in plastic particles and a higher risk of various lung problems. Here's a breakdown of the conditions mentioned:



Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD): A group of long-term lung diseases that make breathing difficult. COPD often includes emphysema (damaged air sacs in the lungs) and chronic bronchitis (long-term inflammation of the airways).



Asthma: A condition where the airways narrow and swell, leading to wheezing, shortness of breath, and coughing.



Lung fibrosis: A condition where lung tissue becomes scarred and thickened, making breathing increasingly difficult.



Unexplained "frosted glass nodules": These are abnormal spots seen on lung scans that resemble hazy ground glass. Their exact cause is often unclear, but they may indicate inflammation or early stages of lung disease.



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



This study highlights the urgency of understanding the full extent of the health risks posed by breathing in microplastics and nanoplastics. While further research is critical, here's what you can do now:



<ul>
<li>Increase Awareness:&nbsp;Educate yourself about the sources of these plastic particles in your daily life.</li>



<li>Advocate for Change:&nbsp;Support initiatives that promote reduction of plastic production and responsible waste management.</li>



<li>Demand Further Research:&nbsp;Urge investment in studies that will help us understand the long-term consequences of plastic inhalation and develop mitigation strategies.</li>
</ul>



These findings provide essential insights for the development of targeted strategies to mitigate potential risks and ensure effective health interventions. This knowledge is crucial to safeguarding our health and the well-being of our planet.



Small steps, like opting for reusable products and supporting sustainable practices, can collectively make a significant difference in protecting our lungs and the air we breathe.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2666765724000437?via%3Dihub" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Environmental Advances</a>.



-----



Like what you read? <a href="https://www.earth.com/subscribe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Subscribe to our newsletter</a> for engaging articles, exclusive content, and the latest updates.&nbsp;



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



-----

Plastic can silently enter our body with every breath we take

The insidious reach of plastic pollution extends far beyond our...

Recent research has shed light on a pressing environmental issue: the impact of abrupt permafrost thaw, known as <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/study-identifies-thermokarst-areas-at-risk-of-releasing-greenhouse-gases/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">thermokarst</a>, on carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions from soil. 



A significant finding from the study is that soil <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/global-co2-emissions-reached-unprecedented-highs-in-2021/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">CO2 emissions</a> are more sensitive to climate warming in areas where permafrost has collapsed than in regions where it remains intact.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-exploring-the-depths-of-permafrost-carbon">Exploring the depths of permafrost carbon</h2>



Permafrost regions, particularly those at high latitudes and altitudes, store about half of all below-ground organic carbon. 



These areas are crucial in maintaining the balance of our climate system. However, with rising <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/global-temperature-increase-2023-blew-past-all-climate-models/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">global temperatures</a>, permafrost is thawing rapidly. 



Thermokarst, the sudden collapse of permafrost due to melting ice within the soil, affects roughly 20% of the northern permafrost region. 



This type of thaw can drastically alter the land's morphology and the properties of the soil, potentially leading to significant changes in ecosystem carbon cycling.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-climate-warming-and-soil-co2-flux">Climate warming and soil CO2 flux</h2>



Both thermokarst and non-thermokarst areas are experiencing ongoing warming, yet the effects on soil CO2 flux in these regions are markedly different. 



This discrepancy has prompted a group of researchers led by Professor YANG Yuanhe from the <a href="http://english.ib.cas.cn/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Institute of Botany of the Chinese Academy of Sciences</a> to delve deeper into the phenomenon. 



Through field and laboratory studies, the team discovered that the warming-induced increase in soil CO2 release was approximately 5.5 times higher in thermokarst areas compared to adjacent non-thermokarst regions.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-mechanisms-of-soil-co2-release">The mechanisms of soil CO2 release </h2>



The team employed multiple scientific techniques, including soil physicochemical analyses, solid-state 13C nuclear magnetic resonance, and metagenomic sequencing. The researchers identified over 30 potential factors influencing the warming effects on soil carbon release. 



They found that the greater response in thermokarst areas is primarily due to the lower quality of soil substrates and a higher abundance of microbial genes related to the decomposition of organic carbon.



Further analysis involved incubating soils from six additional thermokarst-affected sites along a 550-km permafrost transect. 



Results from these experiments showed that thermokarst formation significantly increases the temperature sensitivity of soil carbon release, suggesting a stronger response of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/australias-warming-climate-transforms-soil-into-a-carbon-emitter/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">soil CO2</a> to warming in these landscapes.



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



Professor YANG highlighted the broader significance of these findings: "As a preliminary exploration of its global importance, extrapolating the warming response of soil CO2 flux to all upland thermokarst regions in the Northern Hemisphere, there could be an additional 0.4 Pg C year-1 of soil carbon release." 



This amount represents about a quarter of the projected permafrost soil carbon losses by the end of the 21st century.



Consequently, these insights are vital for accurately projecting future trajectories of permafrost carbon-climate feedback. 



Understanding how thermokarst influences CO2 <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/co2-emissions-cost-us-economy/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">emissions</a> can help scientists and policymakers develop more effective strategies to address the challenges posed by climate change.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-permafrost-dynamics-and-global-warming">Permafrost dynamics and global warming </h2>



The study provides compelling evidence that soil CO2&nbsp;loss becomes stronger upon abrupt permafrost thaw. This means that thermokarst areas are significantly more vulnerable to climate-induced increases in soil CO2 emissions than their non-collapsed counterparts. 



The research is critical for enhancing our understanding of permafrost dynamics and their impact on global warming, paving the way for more informed environmental decision-making in the face of climate change.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-impacts-of-permafrost-thaw-and-co2-release">Impacts of permafrost thaw and CO2 release </h2>



Permafrost thaw can lead to significant changes in an ecosystem, affecting the plants and animals adapted to permafrost environments. In addition, the infrastructure built on permafrost, like roads and buildings, faces increased risk of damage as the once-stable ground becomes unstable.



Moreover, permafrost contains vast amounts of organic carbon that have been frozen for millennia. When permafrost thaws, this carbon is exposed to bacteria and fungi that convert it into carbon dioxide and methane, potent greenhouse gases that further contribute to global warming. 



This creates a feedback loop where warming leads to more thawing, which leads to more emissions, which leads to further warming.



The process and impacts of permafrost thaw are being intensely studied as they present critical challenges not only to local communities but also to global efforts in managing climate change impacts and maintaining sustainability.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41561-024-01440-2" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature Geoscience</a>.



-----



Like what you read? <a href="https://www.earth.com/subscribe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Subscribe to our newsletter</a> for engaging articles, exclusive content, and the latest updates.&nbsp;



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



-----

Abrupt permafrost thaw releases more CO2 than expected

Recent research has shed light on a pressing environmental issue:...

For the first time, researchers have harnessed the power of big data to comprehensively assess the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/climate-airplane-contrail-clouds/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">climate impact</a> of global air travel. The experts meticulously calculated greenhouse gas emissions from aviation for 197 countries, shedding light on previously unreported data. The research is crucial for future environmental policy and planning.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-unreported-aviation-emissions">Unreported aviation emissions</h2>



The 1992 United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) mandated that high-income nations report their <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/aviation-has-greater-environmental-impact-than-expected/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">aviation</a> emissions. However, many countries, including economic giants like China and India, were not required to report their aviation emissions but could do so voluntarily. 



This created a notable gap in global emissions data, which is problematic since the UNFCCC uses these reports to guide emissions reduction negotiations.



Jan Klenner, a PhD candidate at <a href="https://www.ntnu.no/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NTNU’s Industrial Ecology Programme</a> and the lead researcher of the study, emphasized the importance of this new data. "Our work fills the reporting gaps, so that this can inform policy and hopefully improve future negotiations," he stated. 



The findings reveal that countries like China, which did not report its 2019 air travel-related emissions, ranked second only to the United States in total aviation <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/next-up-for-epa-regulating-aircraft-emissions/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">emissions</a>, highlighting a critical area of concern.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-clarity-in-aviation-emissions">Clarity in aviation emissions</h2>



The study brings to light the per-country aviation emissions, including those previously unreported. This clarity is essential for understanding the global distribution of aviation emissions and strategizing reduction efforts.



"Now we have a much clearer picture of aviation emissions per country, which tells you something about how we can go about reducing them," noted Helene Muri, a research professor and one of Klenner’s supervisors. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-surprising-revelations">Surprising revelations</h2>



The study revealed that the United States leads in the total sum of aviation emissions from both international and domestic flights. 



Interestingly, the per capita distribution of emissions indicates that economic well-being correlates with increased aviation activity. With a population of just 5.5 million, Norway ranked third (behind the US and Australia) in per capita domestic emissions.



Klenner's 2022 study, using data from Norway, showed that domestic flights between major cities accounted for a significant portion of emissions, contradicting the assumption that geographical challenges are the primary drivers of high aviation emissions in Norway. 



"The per person emissions in Norway were incredibly high. With this data set, we can confirm that from a Norwegian perspective we have a lot of work to do," said Muri.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-big-data-s-role-in-air-travel-regulation">Big data's role in air travel regulation</h2>



Anders Hammer Strømman, another co-supervisor of the project, highlighted the transformative role of big data in environmental regulation. "This model allows us to do instant emissions modeling - we can calculate the emissions from global aviation as it happens," he noted. 



This capability is particularly valuable as the aviation industry seeks to decarbonize, with big data providing insights into where new fuels and technologies could be most effectively tested.



The model, named AviTeam, is notably the first to provide emissions data for 45 lesser-developed countries that had never before inventoried their greenhouse gas emissions from aviation. 



This innovation not only fills crucial data gaps but also equips these countries with vital information that was previously inaccessible.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-aviation-emissions-and-climate-action">Aviation emissions and climate action</h2>



The research serves as a key example of how big data can revolutionize our approach to understanding and mitigating <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/feds-airliners-are-contributing-greatly-to-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">climate change</a>. 



“Despite national pledges and international agreements, CO2 emissions from aviation have been increasing, and aviation is estimated to have contributed 2.4 percent to global anthropogenic CO2 emissions in recent years,” wrote the study authors.&nbsp;



“Non-CO2 emissions from aviation fuel combustion comprise nitrogen oxides, sulfur oxides, carbon monoxide, non-volatile particulate matter, and organic carbon. These emissions also affect the climate, increasing aviation's contribution to human-induced global warming to date to about 4 percent.”&nbsp;



“Non-CO2 emissions can also affect air pollution and human health, the environment, and contribute to condensation trail formation.”



With a more comprehensive and immediate picture of global aviation emissions, policymakers and members of the aviation industry can coordinate targeted efforts to reduce their environmental impact.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://iopscience.iop.org/article/10.1088/1748-9326/ad3a7d" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Environmental Research Letters</a>.



-----



Like what you read? <a href="https://www.earth.com/subscribe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Subscribe to our newsletter</a> for engaging articles, exclusive content, and the latest updates.&nbsp;



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



-----

Aviation emissions: Big data analysis sparks new concerns

For the first time, researchers have harnessed the power of...

In the world of science, there's something especially captivating about an anomaly that defies expectations. The sudden appearance of a vast hole in the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/antarctica-ice-shelves-melting-faster-due-to-ocean-currents/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Antarctic</a> sea ice – the Maud Rise polynya – in 2016 and 2017 was precisely that kind of mystery. 



Now, a team of scientists has pieced together the intricate chain of events behind this extraordinary phenomenon. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-polynyas">Polynyas</h2>



The Antarctic Ocean stretches out like a vast, white expanse, a seemingly unbroken sheet of ice. However, this frozen landscape isn't entirely uniform. Closer inspection reveals occasional cracks and gaps in the ice cover, like tears in a giant white canvas. These openings, known as polynyas, are far less common than the surrounding ice, but they are much larger than the occasional crack. They are essentially sprawling stretches of unfrozen water amidst the vast sea ice.



Some polynyas form near coastlines where winds push ice from the shore. Others emerge in the open ocean, far from land. These open-ocean polynyas are much rarer and pose a bigger scientific mystery. Unlike their coastal counterparts, their formation isn't readily explained by simple wind patterns. Instead, they seem to be triggered by a complex interplay of factors beneath the ocean's surface.



These open water areas act like temporary windows, allowing for a significant exchange of heat and carbon dioxide to occur. Cold, deep ocean water interacts with the atmosphere at the surface, releasing heat and potentially influencing the amount of carbon dioxide the ocean absorbs. This exchange creates hotspots of activity within the icy landscape, potentially impacting regional climate patterns in the area.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-maud-rise-polynya-the-antarctic-sea-ice-hole">Maud rise polynya: The Antarctic sea ice hole</h2>



In the frigid expanse of the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/antarctica-suffered-extremely-rapid-ice-loss-after-the-last-ice-age-alarming-scientists/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Antarctic</a> Ocean, a peculiar phenomenon emerged during the winters of 2016 and 2017. A massive hole, named the Maud Rise polynya after the submerged mountain beneath it, appeared in the sea ice. 



This anomaly was particularly baffling due to its sheer scale – encompassing an area more than double the size of Wales. Furthermore, unlike most polynyas that come and go seasonally, the Maud Rise polynya persisted for multiple winters, leaving scientists thoroughly perplexed.



A new study has shed light on this icy enigma, meticulously reconstructing the sequence of events that culminated in the formation of this massive polynya. By piecing together the puzzle, researchers hope to gain a deeper understanding of the factors influencing this rare phenomenon.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-oceanic-forces-and-antarctic-sea-ice-hole">Oceanic forces and Antarctic sea ice hole</h2>



The story of the Maud Rise polynya begins with an oceanic change far below the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/sea-ice-levels-in-antarctica-have-reached-an-unprecedented-low/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">icy surface</a>. An intensification in the Weddell Sea's large-scale ocean circulation system - imagine a powerful underwater whirlpool - had a significant impact. 



This swirling intensification caused a layer of warmer and saltier water to rise from the depths. This upwelling of warm, salty water created conditions that could potentially alter the balance between freezing and melting at the surface.



Maud Rise played a critical role. Turbulent currents, like underwater rapids, churned and interacted with the mountain's slopes. This turbulence effectively transported salt from the surrounding waters towards the summit of the mountain.



The physics of wind-driven ocean currents, known as Ekman transport, became a major player in the polynya's formation. The complex mechanics of this phenomenon result in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ancient-ocean-water-discovery-is-unlocking-secrets-of-earths-past/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ocean water</a> being deflected at a right angle to the direction of the blowing wind. This deflection propelled the salt concentrated around Maud Rise towards its northern side. The influx of salt proved to be a crucial factor in creating the opening within the sea ice.



"Ekman transport was the essential missing ingredient that was necessary to increase the balance of salt and sustain the mixing of salt and heat towards the surface water,” explained Professor Alberto Naveira Garabato, a co-author of the study.



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



The story of the Antarctic ice hole Maud Rise polynya doesn't end with the unraveling of its origins. Understanding these events is key to decoding broader changes in the Southern Ocean. Polynyas can leave lasting "footprints" on the ocean, shaping how water moves and distributes heat.



"The dense waters that form here can spread across the global ocean,” noted Professor Sarah Gille. This study serves as a reminder of the complex and far-reaching consequences of even localized phenomena in the context of our planet's <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/study-reveals-the-oceans-hidden-influence-on-global-weather-patterns/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">climate system</a>.



The Maud Rise polynya reminds us that even in the most remote and desolate corners of Earth, dynamic processes are at play. Scientists' relentless pursuit of knowledge sheds light on delicate balances within polar environments and the potential global consequences of change in these icy realms.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.science.org/doi/10.1126/sciadv.adj0777" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Science Advances</a>.



Image Credit: NASA Earth Observatory 



-----



Like what you read? <a href="https://www.earth.com/subscribe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Subscribe to our newsletter</a> for engaging articles, exclusive content, and the latest updates.&nbsp;



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



-----

Experts solve the mystery of a giant hole in Antarctic sea ice

In the world of science, there's something especially captivating about...

Aerial,Top,View,Green,Forest,With,Earth,,Green,Planet,In

Earth, our vibrant planet, has witnessed countless climatic shifts throughout its history, each one leaving an indelible mark on the landscape and the life it sustains. At the heart of this intricate dance between <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/good-news-plants-are-absorbing-more-human-produced-co2-than-expected/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">climate and life lie plants</a>, the silent architects of Earth's atmosphere and the key to understanding our planet's response to the pressing issue of global warming. 



As researchers delve deeper into the field of biogeodynamics, they uncover the fascinating interplay between <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/climate-change-triggers-epic-plant-migration-in-brazils-cerrado/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">vegetation and climate</a>, revealing how Earth's flora has not only adapted to changing conditions but also played an active role in shaping the very climate that sustains them.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-interplay-of-plant-life-and-earth-s-climate">Interplay of plant life and Earth's climate</h2>



Julian Rogger, a researcher at the Institute of Geophysics at <a href="https://ethz.ch/en.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ETH Zurich</a>, is fascinated by the interplay of plant life and climate. 



Earth is the only known planet in the universe capable of supporting living organisms, thanks to its climatic conditions that allow for the presence of liquid water. Rogger explains, "We're trying to understand processes relevant to the present using the geological past."



When the planet's climate shifts, it impacts <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/trees-struggling-to-breathe-store-co2-hotter-climate/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">plant life</a>, forcing ecosystems to evolve and adapt to changing conditions. "I'm interested in the role of life itself in the whole system," Rogger says. "I find it really fascinating to reconstruct the world as it was millions of years ago."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-plants-as-active-participants-in-earth-s-climate-cycle">Plants as active participants in Earth's climate cycle</h2>



In a recent paper published in the journal Science Advances, Rogger and colleagues from ETH and the <a href="https://www.leeds.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Leeds</a> argue that plants are not just passive participants in Earth's climate cycle, but can play an important role in shaping it. 



"We could assume life is just reacting to changes, but it's also possible it's interacting with the system and regulates it," Rogger says.



Using <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ai-sleap-creating-new-plants-that-help-fight-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">computer models</a> that simulate the interplay between climate change, continental movement, and plant life in the deep past, Rogger and his team have shown that plants likely help regulate the Earth's atmosphere by trapping carbon and emitting oxygen, thus controlling CO2 levels. 



They also accelerate the process of mineral weathering in soils, which consumes CO2. The models suggest that the planet's climate and atmosphere are part of a feedback loop, with life itself playing a role in regulating or accelerating climatic changes.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-speed-of-climatic-change-is-a-critical-factor">Speed of climatic change is a critical factor</h2>



The speed of climatic change is a critical factor in determining the impact on <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/beneficial-plant-bacteria-likely-to-decline-due-to-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">plant life</a>. When change is slow enough for plants to evolve or spread to new niches over millions of years, plant activity can act as a buffer, preventing temperatures from shifting too rapidly. 



However, the geological record and fossil evidence show that there have been changes that occurred too quickly, resulting in major disruptions of vegetation and even mass extinctions.



"What we want to know is how fast vegetation is able to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/plants-have-a-way-of-telling-us-what-climate-they-can-survive-in/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">change its characteristics</a> when the world suddenly gets 5 or 6 degrees warmer," Rogger says. "The overall goal is to understand the co-evolution of climate, vegetation and tectonics."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-modeling-the-past-to-understand-the-present">Modeling the past to understand the present</h2>



Rogger and his interdisciplinary team of geologists, computer scientists, and earth scientists created a computer model of the last 390 million years, taking into account the shifting of continents, climate, and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/flowers-blooming-92-days-earlier-due-to-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">vegetation's response</a> to these changes. 



Running simulations on powerful supercomputers can take up to a month due to the complexity of the problem and the length of time they represent.



The team uses geological data, such as chemical analysis of sediments and fossils, to make the models as realistic as possible. 



The models show that long periods of stability allow <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/hidden-power-plants-impact-climate-ecosystems/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">vegetation to flourish</a>, absorbing CO2 and stabilizing the Earth's climate over time. Plants were able to evolve fast enough to adjust to gradual shifts in climate and landscapes due to continental drift.



However, when the climate system is disrupted and changes too rapidly for vegetation to adapt, plants are wiped out and can't act as a buffer to slow down shifts in climate. 



"It's like a feedback effect," Rogger explains. "Because regulation falls away, you could have a stronger increase in CO2 and more climate change than was previously expected."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-resilience-of-earth-s-ecosystems">Resilience of Earth's ecosystems</h2>



At a time when the Earth's climate is changing faster than ever before, Rogger's research has practical implications. Information from the past can help us understand how resilient the Earth's interlocking systems are. 



"How fast are ecosystems able to respond to changes in the climate and landscape? That's one of the major unknowns," he says. "It's an acute question – how resilient is the Earth?"



In summary, as we face the unprecedented pace of climate change today, Rogger's research serves as a vital reminder of the intricate dance between life, plants and Earth's climate.



By studying the past, we gain invaluable insights into the resilience of Earth's ecosystems and their <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/plants-pass-down-memories-to-help-offspring-survive/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ability to adapt</a> to changing conditions. This knowledge arms us with the tools to better understand and respond to the challenges we face in the present and future. 



As we work to protect and preserve our planet's delicate balance, we must remember that we are not mere spectators in Earth's climate dance, but active participants with the power to shape its rhythm for generations to come.



The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://www.science.org/doi/10.1126/sciadv.adj4408" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Science Advances</a>.



-----



Like what you read? <a href="https://www.earth.com/subscribe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Subscribe to our newsletter</a> for engaging articles, exclusive content, and the latest updates.&nbsp;



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



-----

How plants actively shaped Earth's climate cycle throughout history

Earth, our vibrant planet, has witnessed countless climatic shifts throughout...

The latest negotiations on a global treaty to address plastic pollution concluded in Canada early Tuesday, advancing the dialogue despite significant debates, particularly over the prospect of setting global limits on <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/plastic-production-increases-create-identical-plastic-pollution-increase/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">plastic production</a>. 



This session marked a pivotal shift as negotiators for the first time discussed the draft text of the treaty, moving from conceptual discussions to concrete treaty language.



The session in Ottawa, which is the fourth of five planned meetings, saw negotiators grappling with one of the most contentious issues: the potential limitation of plastic production.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-highly-complex-issue">Highly complex issue</h2>



Despite strong objections from countries and industries reliant on plastic production, this issue remained in the treaty draft. Since most plastic is manufactured using fossil fuels and chemicals, reducing production is a highly complex issue.



As the meeting wrapped up, the committee resolved to continue refining the treaty's terms before reconvening for the final session in South Korea later this year.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-moving-forward-with-the-plastics-treaty">Moving forward with the plastics treaty</h2>



The next session will focus on key issues such as financing mechanisms for the treaty's implementation, assessing <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/4200-harmful-plastic-chemicals-hidden-in-everyday-objects/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">chemicals</a> of concern in plastics, and examining product design. 



However, Rwanda's representative expressed concern that by not directly addressing the volume of plastic production, negotiators were avoiding a critical issue.



“In the end, this is not just about the text, it’s not just about the process,” said Jyoti Mathur-Filipp, the executive secretary of the committee. “It is quite simply about providing a better future for generations and for our loved ones.”&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-focus-on-circularity-nbsp">Focus on circularity&nbsp;</h2>



Industry representatives, however, have different priorities. Stewart Harris from the <a href="https://icca-chem.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">International Council of Chemical Associations</a> emphasized the industry's focus on <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/recycling-is-not-enough-to-address-the-plastic-crisis/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">recycling</a> and reusing plastics, a concept often referred to as “circularity.” 



Thus, the Council does not want a cap on plastic production, and considers that chemicals should not be regulated through this agreement.&nbsp;



Harris also expressed satisfaction with the progress made in discussions, particularly around additional work on financing and plastic product design.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-addressing-the-issue-of-microplastics-nbsp">Addressing the issue of microplastics&nbsp;</h2>



The negotiations were also informed by scientific input aimed at dispelling myths about plastics.&nbsp;



“I heard yesterday that there’s no data on <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/microplastics-migrate-from-the-gut-to-other-organs/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">microplastics</a>, which is verifiably false: 21,000 articles on micro and nanoplastics have been published,” said Bethanie Carney Almroth, an ecotoxicology professor and co-leader of the <a href="https://ikhapp.org/scientistscoalition/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Scientists’ Coalition for an Effective Plastics Treaty</a>. She also mentioned challenges faced by scientists, including harassment by industry lobbyists.



In a news conference on Saturday, members of an Indigenous Peoples’ Caucus said that microplastics are contaminating their food supply and threatening their communities and ways of life.&nbsp;



“We have bigger stakes. These are our ancestral lands that are being polluted with plastic,” said Juressa Lee of New Zealand. “We’re rights holders, not stakeholders. We should have more space to speak and make decisions than the people causing the problem.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-common-goal-to-move-forward-with-plastics-treaty">Common goal to move forward with plastics treaty</h2>



Despite these challenges, the diverse group of countries shared a common goal to progress with the treaty.&nbsp;



“Because at the end of the day, we’re talking about the survival of the future of life, not only of human life but all sorts of life on this planet,” argued Ecuador’s chief negotiator, Walter Schuldt.



However, the discussions, initiated by a resolution proposed by Rwanda and Peru, have been marked by slow progress and intense debate.&nbsp;



“We took a major step forward after two years of lots of discussion. Now we have text to negotiate,” said Björn Beeler, the international coordinator for the <a href="https://www.ipen.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">International Pollutants Elimination Network</a>. “Unfortunately, much more political will is needed to address the out of control escalating plastic production.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-plastics-treaty-negotiations-continue">Plastics treaty negotiations continue</h2>



As the plastics treaty negotiation process continues, the involvement of affected communities and advocacy groups underscores the urgent need for change.&nbsp;



From Louisiana to New Zealand, individuals and groups are calling for actions that go beyond government discussions to address the tangible impacts of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/the-interlinked-crisis-of-plastic-pollution-and-global-warming/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">plastic pollution</a> on communities and natural environments. 



This collective effort highlights a global recognition of the need for significant and effective measures to combat plastic pollution, ensuring a healthier planet for future generations.



“We are working toward a world where we won’t have plastic litter everywhere in our ecosystems,” said Mathur-Filipp. “The energy is there, the will is there and I know we will get an instrument by the end of the year.”



-----



Like what you read? <a href="https://www.earth.com/subscribe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Subscribe to our newsletter</a> for engaging articles, exclusive content, and the latest updates.



Check us out on <a href="https://www.earth.com/earthsnap/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">EarthSnap</a>, a free app brought to you by <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/eric-ralls/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Eric Ralls</a> and Earth.com.



-----

Plastics treaty talks: Slow progress, yet restored hope

The latest negotiations on a global treaty to address plastic...

Millions of years ago, the end-Triassic period was marked by a cataclysmic mass extinction event during which <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/major-volcanic-eruptions-led-to-the-rise-of-the-dinosaurs/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">massive volcanoes</a> reshaped Earth’s climate and its life forms. A recent study from an international team of researchers highlights how ancient volcanoes and climate change caused lasting impacts on ecosystems and ferns.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-malformed-ferns">Malformed ferns</h2>



The researchers examined sediments from Germany and uncovered a wealth of fossilized pollen and spores from ancient plants. Shockingly, they found a large number of fern spores with unusual deformities. These weren't minor imperfections; the spores were distorted in strange ways, suggesting major problems during their growth.



"The sheer number and variety of malformations were astounding," said Remco Bos, a PhD candidate at <a href="https://www.uu.nl/en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Utrecht University</a> and lead author of the study. "It's a clear sign that these ferns were under immense stress."



And this wasn't an isolated event. Similar patterns of deformed fern spores have been discovered in Denmark and Sweden. This suggests that vast regions across Europe were once filled with these struggling ferns.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-resilient-ferns">Resilient ferns</h2>



Ferns are remarkably resilient plants. They are known to quickly take root in areas ravaged by natural disasters like fires or volcanic eruptions. The end-Triassic extinction, caused by massive volcanic activity, would have destroyed huge portions of forests. In this devastated landscape, ferns seized their chance and flourished, replacing trees in a significant change to the ecosystem.



However, while ferns managed to survive the immediate extinction event, their challenges were far from over. The lack of forests had a negative impact on ferns, exposing them to new dangers.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-volcanos-and-fern-deformities">Volcanos and fern deformities</h2>



Volcanoes release numerous harmful substances, including mercury, a highly toxic element. Mercury is particularly dangerous because it can transform into a gas and be carried by winds over vast distances, contaminating areas far from the eruption site.



The research team carefully analyzed the sediment layers and discovered surges in mercury levels that directly matched the periods when deformed <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/plants-had-complex-leaf-vein-networks-200-million-years-ago/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ferns</a> spores were most abundant. This strong correlation provides compelling evidence that mercury poisoning was responsible for the ferns' abnormalities.



Surprisingly, the damage wasn't limited to the immediate aftermath of the volcanic eruptions. Scientists discovered four additional periods of elevated mercury levels and fern deformities spanning an astonishing 1.3 to 2 million years after the <a href="https://www.earth.com/earthpedia-articles/its-too-late-the-6th-mass-extinction-is-here/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">extinction</a> event. This reveals a much longer and more complex environmental crisis.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-climate-cycle-due-to-volcanoes-and-ferns">Climate cycle due to volcanoes and ferns</h2>



The presence of repeated mercury spikes long after the volcanic activity subsided raises the question: what was the ongoing source of this toxic pollution? The answer involves a long-term astronomical cycle. Every 405,000 years, subtle changes in Earth's orbit cause it to move slightly closer to the sun. This results in a periodic increase in the amount of solar radiation reaching Earth.



In the aftermath of the extinction, the planet was already experiencing abnormally high temperatures. This cyclical boost in sunlight likely caused recurring episodes of forest death. Forests that decayed or burned released the mercury they had absorbed during the volcanic era back into the environment. Rain and erosion then carried this mercury, along with mercury trapped in the soil, into waterways and surrounding landscapes.



<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/tree-ferns-in-panama-turn-their-dead-leaves-into-new-roots/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Ferns</a>, with their ability to thrive in disturbed environments, were able to recolonize these devastated areas. However, their resilience couldn't protect them from the renewed waves of mercury poisoning.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-significance-of-volcano-eruptions-and-fern-mass-extinction">Significance of volcano eruptions and fern mass extinction</h2>



"This echoes what we see with present-day mercury pollution," said Dr. Tomas Navratil, a co-author on the study. "Forest soils can act as long-term reservoirs for mercury, which can be remobilized during hotter periods, poisoning ecosystems long after the initial contamination."



The end-Triassic extinction serves as a powerful reminder of how climate change and pollution can become intertwined, creating devastating environmental crises. Mass extinction events, often portrayed as sudden catastrophes, are far more complex. They trigger long and unpredictable environmental disruptions that play out over extended periods.



In the case of the end-Triassic extinction, the initial volcanic eruptions caused a dramatic shift in the planet's climate. However, the environmental consequences unfolded over millions of years. Mercury contamination from the eruptions lingered in the environment, poisoning ecosystems long after the immediate extinction event. Furthermore, natural climate cycles interacted with this pollution, creating repeated waves of ecological damage.



Earth's resilience eventually allowed it to recover from this mass extinction. Life, however, took millions of years to return to a semblance of normality. This extended period of environmental instability highlights the profound impact that mass extinction events can have on the trajectory of life on our planet.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41467-024-47922-0" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature Communications</a>.



-----



Like what you read? <a href="https://www.earth.com/subscribe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Subscribe to our newsletter</a> for engaging articles, exclusive content, and the latest updates.&nbsp;



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



-----

Ancient volcanoes poisoned ferns for millions of years

Millions of years ago, the end-Triassic period was marked by...

A recent study led by <a href="https://www.deakin.edu.au/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Deakin University</a> in Australia has highlighted the significant negative effects of moderate levels of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/traffic-noise-increases-the-risk-of-hypertension/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">traffic noise</a> on eggs and nesting baby birds, demonstrating that such noise exposure can have lasting detrimental impacts on their development and fitness. 



The study adds to growing concern about noise pollution, which is now recognized as a pervasive environmental problem affecting even the most remote areas of the Earth.



“Human-produced noise has become a part of the world’s environment, and traffic noise in particular is incessant and present globally. Such noise has been shown to alter behavior in a variety of animals, including birds,” noted the researchers.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-noise-pollution-and-developing-birds-nbsp">Noise pollution and developing birds&nbsp;</h2>



The scientists focused on the developmental impacts of noise pollution on wild zebra finch birds. The findings indicate that exposure to traffic noise - common in urban settings - directly affects the growth and fitness of birds, starting from when they are just embryos in the egg. 



In their experiment, the researchers exposed zebra finch eggs and baby birds to recordings of typical traffic noise, songs of their species, or silence.



“Noise pollution is expanding at an unprecedented rate and is increasingly associated with impaired reproduction and development across taxa. However, whether noise sound waves are intrinsically harmful for developing young - or merely disturb parents - and the fitness consequences of early exposure remain unknown,” wrote the study authors.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-impacts-of-traffic-noise-on-baby-birds">Impacts of traffic noise on baby birds</h2>



The results showed that birds exposed to traffic noise from the egg stage suffered from stunted growth, shorter telomeres, and reduced fitness in adulthood. This suggests that the noise does more than just alter the behaviors of adult birds; it has direct biological effects on developing young.



“Here, by only manipulating the offspring, we show that sole exposure to noise in early life in zebra finches has fitness consequences and causes embryonic death during exposure,” noted the researchers.



“Exposure to pre- and postnatal traffic noise cumulatively impaired nestling growth and physiology and aggravated telomere shortening across life stages until adulthood.”



“Consistent with a long-term somatic impact, early life noise exposure, especially prenatally, decreased individual offspring production throughout adulthood. Our findings suggest that the effects of noise pollution are more pervasive than previously realized.”



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



In a related Perspective article, Hans Slabbekoorn, an expert in acoustic ecology and behavior has emphasized the broader implications of these findings.&nbsp;



“The study of Meillère et al. on zebra finches reinforces the notion of negative noise impact on chicks as they develop in the egg, an effect that extends to prenatal exposure to noise in other species, including humans,” explained Slabbekoorn.&nbsp;



“The findings suggest that the acoustic environment of breeding birds in cities and along highways should be better managed, and that the acoustic comfort in hospital environments for pregnant mothers and babies warrants special attention.”



The evidence from this study calls for a critical reassessment of the risks posed by anthropogenic noise and highlights the urgent need for effective noise mitigation strategies to protect <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/global-wildlife-threats-can-be-identified-using-ai-technology/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">wildlife</a> and human health. 



The disruption caused by noise pollution to physiology, development, and reproduction can lead to a lifelong reduction in fitness, underscoring the need for policymakers and conservationists to address this environmental issue more proactively.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-more-about-the-impacts-of-noise-pollution-on-wildlife">More about the impacts of noise pollution on wildlife</h2>



Noise pollution significantly affects animals, influencing their behavior, physiology, and even survival across diverse ecosystems. For instance, in marine environments, the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ship-noise-threatens-the-survival-of-beluga-whales/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">noise from ships</a> and industrial activities can interfere with the communication and navigation of species like whales and dolphins, which rely on echolocation to find food, mate, and migrate. This disruption can lead to reduced mating success and sometimes fatal ship strikes.



Even beyond the immediate impacts on communication and stress, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ocean-noise-can-be-fatal-to-marine-invertebrates/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">noise</a> pollution alters predator-prey dynamics. For example, noise can mask the sounds of predators approaching, leading to higher predation rates in noisy areas. Conversely, some predators exploit this, using human-made noise to sneak up on unsuspecting prey.



On land, birds are particularly vulnerable; noise pollution can mask their songs, which are critical for attracting mates and defending territories. Studies have shown that areas with high noise levels often see changes in bird species composition, with noise-sensitive species declining in numbers. 



Additionally, chronic noise can induce stress responses in wildlife, leading to elevated heart rates and impaired immune systems, which diminish their overall fitness.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.science.org/doi/10.1126/science.ade5868" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Science</a>.



-----



Like what you read? <a href="https://www.earth.com/subscribe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Subscribe to our newsletter</a> for engaging articles, exclusive content, and the latest updates.



Check us out on <a href="https://www.earth.com/earthsnap/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">EarthSnap</a>, a free app brought to you by <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/eric-ralls/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Eric Ralls</a> and Earth.com.



-----

Exposure to traffic noise disrupts bird development

A recent study led by Deakin University in Australia has...

<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.



—–



Like what you saw and read?&nbsp;<a href="https://www.earth.com/subscribe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Subscribe to our newsletter</a>&nbsp;for engaging articles, exclusive content, and the latest updates.



—–



Check us out on&nbsp;<a href="https://www.earth.com/earthsnap/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">EarthSnap</a>, a free app brought to you by&nbsp;<a href="https://www.earth.com/author/eralls/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Eric Ralls</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.earth.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Earth.com</a>.



—–

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.



—–



Like what you saw and read?&nbsp;<a href="https://www.earth.com/subscribe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Subscribe to our newsletter</a>&nbsp;for engaging articles, exclusive content, and the latest updates.



—–



Check us out on&nbsp;<a href="https://www.earth.com/earthsnap/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">EarthSnap</a>, a free app brought to you by&nbsp;<a href="https://www.earth.com/author/eralls/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Eric Ralls</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.earth.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Earth.com</a>.



—–

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.



—–



Like what you saw and read?&nbsp;<a href="https://www.earth.com/subscribe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Subscribe to our newsletter</a>&nbsp;for engaging articles, exclusive content, and the latest updates.



—–



Check us out on&nbsp;<a href="https://www.earth.com/earthsnap/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">EarthSnap</a>, a free app brought to you by&nbsp;<a href="https://www.earth.com/author/eralls/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Eric Ralls</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.earth.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Earth.com</a>.



—–

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>.



—–



Like what you saw and read? <a href="https://www.earth.com/subscribe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Subscribe to our newsletter</a> for engaging articles, exclusive content, and the latest updates.



—–



Check us out on&nbsp;<a href="https://www.earth.com/earthsnap/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">EarthSnap</a>, a free app brought to you by&nbsp;<a href="https://www.earth.com/author/eralls/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Eric Ralls</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.earth.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Earth.com</a>.



—–

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>.



-----



Like what you read? <a href="https://www.earth.com/subscribe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Subscribe to our newsletter</a> for engaging articles, exclusive content, and the latest updates.



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



-----



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>.



-----



Like what you read? <a href="https://www.earth.com/subscribe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Subscribe to our newsletter</a> for engaging articles, exclusive content, and the latest updates.



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



-----

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>



-----



Like what you read? <a href="https://www.earth.com/subscribe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Subscribe to our newsletter</a> for engaging articles, exclusive content, and the latest updates.



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



-----

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.

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



-----



Like what you read? <a href="https://www.earth.com/subscribe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Subscribe to our newsletter</a> for engaging articles, exclusive content, and the latest updates.



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



-----

Wildlife tunnels save millions of amphibians

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Is chocolate the next nutritional powerhouse?

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

<div class="wp-block-sendtonews-playerselector">[sendtonews key="QGPzYnXEtN-1712599-12187" type="single"]</div>



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



---



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



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

Designing crops that can beat the heat

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

<div class="wp-block-sendtonews-playerselector">[sendtonews key="EjmSP20gQK-2593093-12187" type="single"]</div>



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;



---



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



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

Remote sensing will revolutionize the way we monitor trees

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

<div class="wp-block-sendtonews-playerselector">[sendtonews key="uV9Lh2fQbV-1760058-12187" type="single"]</div>



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;



---



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



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

Lesotho: Africa's "Kingdom in the Sky"

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

<div class="wp-block-sendtonews-playerselector">[sendtonews key="f8fukm28Vz-2491833-12187" type="single"]</div>



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



---



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



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

Wetlands are a major source of methane emissions

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

<div class="wp-block-sendtonews-playerselector">[sendtonews key="0879czfG3k-1785905-12187" type="single"]</div>



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



---



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



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

The rapid retreat of the Columbia Glacier

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

<div class="wp-block-sendtonews-playerselector">[sendtonews key="3UUsNkFOuS-2487333-12187" type="single"]</div>



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



---



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



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

2022 illustrated the consequences of a warming climate

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

<div class="wp-block-sendtonews-playerselector">[sendtonews key="JbW4VsY53O-1632195-12187" type="single"]</div>



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;



---



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



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

Satellites reveal how Earth's systems are interconnected

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



---



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



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

Tiger sharks are shifting poleward as temperatures rise

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

<div class="wp-block-sendtonews-playerselector">[sendtonews key="qARzJPSabQ-2270617-12187" type="single"]</div>



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;



---



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



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

Melt ponds on the Greenland Ice Sheet

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

<div class="wp-block-sendtonews-playerselector">[sendtonews key="fxH3eJHEkQ-2010196-12187" type="single"]</div>



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



---



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



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

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

<div class="wp-block-sendtonews-playerselector">[sendtonews key="Ccjk8KEMzv-2550719-12187" type="single"]</div>



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;



---



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



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

Mysterious "spoke season" captured on Saturn

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

News coming your way