<p>For years, scientists believed they had a decent handle on what was melting the ice in West Antarctica. Warmer oceans and stronger winds blowing in from the west - that was the popular theory.</p>



<p>But now, after running climate simulations using local data, researchers have discovered that we might have been looking the wrong way entirely. It’s not the westerly winds causing the biggest trouble - it’s the northerly winds.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ice-loss-means-rising-seas">Ice loss means rising seas</h2>



<p>Antarctica holds most of the planet’s freshwater, frozen in a massive sheet of ice that covers an area bigger than the U.S. and Mexico combined. </p>



<p>That ice isn’t just sitting still. Some of it flows slowly into the ocean, held back by giant floating extensions called <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/antarcticas-melting-ice-shelves-threaten-global-sea-levels/">ice shelves</a>. If the ice sheet in West Antarctica collapses, sea levels around the world could rise by as much as 20 feet.</p>



<p>Even small changes in how fast that ice melts can have huge consequences for coastal cities, global currents, and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ai-prediction-model-is-a-major-breakthrough-in-weather-forecasting/">weather systems</a>. </p>



<p>That’s why scientists have spent decades trying to understand what’s causing the West Antarctic ice sheet to shrink. It’s been getting smaller since at least the 1940s. But not all the pieces of the puzzle were adding up.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-tracking-antarctica-s-hidden-winds">Tracking Antarctica’s hidden winds</h2>



<p>The new study was led by researchers at the <a href="https://www.washington.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Washington</a> (UW). They weren’t satisfied with the usual <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/climate-models-underestimate-sea-ice-melt-and-global-warming/">climate models</a>, which often rely on global data and struggle with the lack of weather stations in Antarctica. So they decided to build something better.</p>



<p>They pulled in proxy data - long-term records preserved in things like ice cores, tree rings, and coral. These natural sources can give clues about past wind and weather patterns, helping fill in the gaps left by satellite data and on-the-ground observations.</p>



<p>“We thought that we were going to support what the climate models showed, which was that the westerly winds were getting stronger near the coast of Antarctica,” said Gemma O’Connor, lead author and a UW postdoctoral researcher. </p>



<p>“But there was no evidence of westerly winds strengthening in this part of Antarctica.” That finding was odd. If westerly winds weren’t to blame, what was?</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-northerly-winds-drive-the-ice-melt">Northerly winds drive the ice melt</h2>



<p>The team used high-resolution simulations to test 30 different wind scenarios. Each run of the model applied a different wind pattern to see what happened to the ice over a five-year stretch. They repeated the process again and again.</p>



<p>One pattern kept showing up: when winds came from the north, ice loss accelerated. <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/the-westerly-winds-are-changing-and-the-consequences-are-unknown/">Westerly winds</a> didn’t do much.</p>



<p>Northerly winds shifted sea ice, closing small open areas in the ice cover known as polynyas. These are basically patches where heat can escape from the ocean into the atmosphere. When the winds closed them off, the ocean held onto more of its heat.</p>



<p>“Sea ice is a really good insulator, it keeps the ocean relatively warm compared to the air,” said Kyle Armour, a UW professor. “When northerly winds close the polynyas, it reduces ocean heat loss, which means warmer waters and more melting of ice shelves below the surface.”</p>



<p>This hidden heating creates a chain reaction. As the warmer water melts the ice shelves from below, freshwater enters the salty sea. That mix causes a difference in density, which pulls even more warm ocean water into the region - speeding up the melt further.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-climate-connection-we-didn-t-expect">A climate connection we didn’t expect</h2>



<p>The big question is: what’s making those northerly winds stronger? Early signs point to climate change. </p>



<p>Emissions of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/greenhouse-gas-emissions-reach-another-all-time-high/">greenhouse gases</a> are likely decreasing air pressure over the Amundsen Sea, a region that shapes many of Antarctica’s weather patterns. Lower pressure strengthens the northerly winds - the same ones that are making the melt worse.</p>



<p>“This mechanism provides a connection between West Antarctic ice loss and human-induced climate change, albeit a different mechanism than we previously suspected,” O’Connor said.</p>



<p>This isn’t just a scientific curiosity. It’s a real link between our actions and the future of the world’s ice. If our emissions are playing a role in these winds, then reducing those emissions could slow the melting.</p>



<p>“We know the Earth is warming up on average, but that alone doesn’t explain ice loss in Antarctica,” said Eric Steig, professor of Earth and space sciences at UW. </p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-northerly-winds-change-the-story">Northerly winds change the story</h2>



<p>For decades, the focus has been on <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/the-westerly-winds-are-changing-and-the-consequences-are-unknown/">westerly winds</a> - the ones that blow from west to east across the Southern Hemisphere. </p>



<p>Scientists thought they were pushing warm ocean water toward Antarctica and driving the ice to melt faster. But they missed something important.</p>



<p>“I think what Gemma has done is going to lead to a complete revolution in the understanding of what drives Antarctic ice loss,” Armour said. “We had all sorts of theories about the winds that blow from west to east, but the northerly winds weren’t even on our radar. We were off by 90 degrees.”</p>



<p>The lesson here is clear. Climate science is constantly evolving, and even long-standing ideas can be turned on their head. In this case, or rather, on their side.</p>



<p>Understanding which way the wind is blowing - literally - might be one of the keys to protecting the future of Earth’s ice.</p>



<p>The full study was published in the journal <em><a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41561-025-01757-6" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature Geoscience</a></em>.</p>



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Antarctic ice melt traced to an overlooked source

For years, scientists believed they had a decent handle on what was melting the ice in West Antarctica. Warmer oceans and stronger winds blowing in from the west - that was the popular theory. But now, after running climate simulations using local data, researchers have discovered that we might have been looking the wrong way entirely. It’s not the westerly winds causing the biggest trouble - it’s the northerly winds. Ice loss means rising seas Antarctica holds most of the planet’s freshwater, frozen in a massive sheet...

<p>The Biden administration has made a historic move by finalizing strict limits on certain "forever chemicals" in drinking water, marking a first in national drinking water standards. The chemicals in question, known as PFAS (perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances), have been linked to a myriad of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/forever-chemicals-encourage-cancer-to-spread-around-the-body/">health issues</a>, including cancers, and are notorious for their persistence in the environment.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The decisive action by the <a href="https://www.epa.gov/home" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Environmental Protection Agency</a> (EPA) mandates utilities to reduce these chemicals to the lowest levels that can be reliably measured, impacting the water quality for an estimated 100 million Americans.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-widespread-use-of-pfas">Widespread use of PFAS</h2>



<p>PFAS are a group of synthetic chemicals that have been used across a wide range of products - from nonstick pans to firefighting foams - due to their water and oil repellant properties.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Despite their widespread use, PFAS are incredibly resilient, failing to degrade in the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/endangered-dolphins-suffer-from-the-highest-known-levels-of-pfas/">natural environment</a> and accumulating over time. This has led to widespread environmental contamination and significant concerns over their impact on human health, including associations with low birth weight, liver disease, and various cancers.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-types-of-forever-chemicals-targeted">Types of forever chemicals targeted</h2>



<p>The new rule targets specifically two common types of forever chemicals, PFOA and PFOS, limiting their presence in drinking water to four parts per trillion. </p>



<p>Additionally, the initiative sets limits for three other types of PFAS in drinking water, including GenEx Chemicals, to 10 parts per trillion. This is in direct response to concerns about their prevalence and toxicity, particularly highlighted in regions like North Carolina.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-life-changing-rule-on-pfas">Life-changing rule on PFAS</h2>



<p>EPA Administrator Michael Regan says the rule is the most important action the EPA has ever taken on PFAS. “The result is a comprehensive and life-changing rule, one that will improve the health and vitality of so many communities across our country,” said Regan.</p>



<p>The initiative aims to significantly reduce exposure to PFAS in drinking water and the associated health risks. The rule is anticipated to cost about $1.5 billion annually to implement, but is expected to prevent nearly 10,000 deaths over the coming decades and substantially decrease incidences of serious illnesses.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-concerns-and-financial-implications-nbsp">Concerns and financial implications&nbsp;</h2>



<p>However, this landmark rule has not been met without contention. Water utilities have raised concerns over the financial implications of installing treatment systems to meet these new standards. The costs, they argue, are steep and will inevitably be passed on to consumers, potentially exacerbating inequities for small communities with fewer resources.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The American Water Works Association, representing the industry, has critiqued the EPA's cost estimates and highlighted challenges, including a shortage of skilled workers and filtration materials.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-pervasive-threat-of-pfas">Pervasive threat of PFAS</h2>



<p>Despite these challenges, the need for stringent PFAS limits has been echoed by health and environmental advocates. The move to regulate these chemicals at such low levels reflects a growing recognition of their <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/forever-chemicals-are-an-underestimated-source-of-water-contamination/">pervasive threat</a> and the necessity of decisive action to protect public health.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The Associated Press reports that last June, a utility outside Philadelphia that serves nearly 9,000 people learned that one of its wells had a PFOA level of 235 parts per trillion. This was one of the highest known concentrations in the country at the time, and the source of the contamination is still unknown.</p>



<p>“I mean, obviously, it was a shock,” said Joseph Hastings, director of the joint public works department for the Collegeville and Trappe boroughs. Hastings noted that installing treatment systems could be a multi-million dollar endeavor, a major expense for a small customer base.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-public-confidence-in-drinking-water-nbsp">Public confidence in drinking water&nbsp;</h2>



<p>The new regulation is “going to throw public confidence in drinking water into chaos,” said Mike McGill, president of WaterPIO, a water industry communications firm.</p>



<p>Support for the rule extends beyond the realms of public health and environmental protection, touching on personal stories of loss and activism.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The family of Amara Strande, a young woman whose death from a rare cancer has been attributed by her family to PFAS exposure, represents a poignant example of the human toll behind the statistics. Their involvement in advocating for stricter PFAS regulations speaks to the broader impact of these <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/skiers-are-spreading-pfas-forever-chemicals-around-the-worlds-mountains/">chemicals</a> on communities and the importance of the Biden administration's initiative.</p>



<p>As the nation moves to implement these new standards, the efforts will undoubtedly face hurdles, including legal challenges and the logistical complexities of upgrading water treatment systems. Yet, the establishment of the first-ever national limit on PFAS in drinking water marks a significant step forward in the ongoing battle to safeguard <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/plastic-containers-may-release-forever-chemicals-into-food/">public health</a> from these contaminants.</p>



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Strict PFAS limits will make drinking water safer for 100 million Americans

The Biden administration has made a historic move by finalizing...

<p>Climate change and its financial repercussions on <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/climate-change-will-have-a-global-impact-on-agriculture/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">agriculture</a> are at the forefront of a recent study from the <a href="https://gps.ucsd.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of California San Diego School of Global Policy and Strategy</a>. </p>



<p>Offering new insights, this research plays a crucial role. It aids global efforts to ensure food security and financial resilience amid increasing climate-related disasters.</p>



<p>"Effective policies for adaptation to climate change require understanding how impacts are related to exposures and vulnerability, the dimensions of the climate system that will change most and where human impacts will be most draconian, and the institutions best suited to respond," wrote the researchers.</p>



<p>"Here, we propose a simple method for more credibly pairing empirical statistical damage estimates derived from recent weather and outcome observations with projected future climate changes and proposed responses."</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-financial-impact-of-climate-change-on-agriculture">Financial impact of climate change on agriculture</h2>



<p>The study zeroes in on Brazil's agricultural sector. It shows how climate change disrupts <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/eating-our-way-out-of-the-climate-crisis-with-farm-free-food/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">farming</a>, leading to a significant rise in loan defaults.</p>



<p>Consequently, this raises significant concerns for one of the country's largest public sector banks. It could face a surge in climate-driven loan defaults, potentially increasing by up to seven percent over the next thirty years.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-regional-responses-to-climate-change">Regional responses to climate change</h2>



<p>The research also highlights the varied impacts of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/financial-loss-from-hurricanes-could-triple-from-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">climate</a> change across different regions. It emphasizes the importance of developing tailored resilience strategies. </p>



<p>For instance, northern Brazil may face more severe seasonal fluctuations, requiring improved water storage solutions. Conversely, the need to adapt to higher temperatures in central Brazil challenges the region to develop heat-resistant crops.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-impacts-on-agriculture-and-finance">Impacts on agriculture and finance</h2>



<p>For the analysis, the study authors combined historical climate and agricultural productivity data with climate simulations. This innovative approach enabled the experts to forecast future weather conditions and their implications for agriculture and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/7-trillion-invested-every-year-in-products-and-activities-that-directly-harm-nature/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">financial</a> institutions.</p>



<p>"A difficulty in studying climate impacts on agriculture is that there are all sorts of adaptations happening all the time that aren’t easily observed," explained study co-author Professor Jennifer Burney. "But these adaptations are really important for understanding vulnerability and how risk is changing."</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-global-applications-of-local-insights">Global applications of local insights</h2>



<p>Study co-author Professor Craig McIntosh elaborated on the study's objectives. "The technique we developed will help populations identify where they are most vulnerable, how climate change will hurt them the most economically, and what institutions they should focus on to build resilience."</p>



<p>This approach could guide governments in making informed decisions about relying on local, regional, or international institutions for <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/global-climate-adaptation-lacks-coordination/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">climate adaptation</a>.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-financing-climate-resilience">Financing climate resilience</h2>



<p>The findings are relevant to the implementation of the loss and damage fund established by the United Nations in 2022. The fund is designed to compensate developing nations that are disproportionately affected by climate change.</p>



<p>Professor Krislert Samphantharak emphasized the potential of this research to maximize the efficacy of funds allocated for resilience-building, including the strategic use of international reinsurance.</p>



<p>The study offers a vital resource for policymakers, disaster relief agencies, and financial institutions around the world. It helps them to more effectively prepare for and reduce the financial effects of climate change on agriculture. </p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-policy-recommendations">Policy recommendations</h2>



<p>Drawing on the study's insights, targeted policy actions could be utilized to counteract the adverse effects of climate change on agriculture and finance. These include:</p>



<ol>
<li>Enhanced support for climate-resilient agriculture: Invest in research and development of crops that can withstand extreme weather, alongside modernizing irrigation to conserve water. Support for these initiatives can come through grants, subsidies, or tax incentives.</li>



<li>Infrastructure upgrades: Bolstering infrastructure, such as flood defenses and water storage systems, can protect agricultural lands from the worst effects of climate variability and change.</li>



<li>Financial instruments for risk management: Encourage the creation and use of insurance products and financial instruments that help farmers and banks manage the risks associated with climate change more effectively.</li>



<li>Education and training programs: Implement educational programs for farmers on sustainable farming practices and climate adaptation strategies to enhance resilience at the grassroots level.</li>



<li>Policy frameworks for sustainable farming: Develop and enforce policy frameworks that promote sustainable farming practices, reducing agriculture's environmental footprint and improving its resilience to climate change.</li>
</ol>



<p>The study is published in the journal <em><a href="https://www.pnas.org/doi/10.1073/pnas.2215677121" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences</a></em>.</p>



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Climate change imposes financial burden on global agriculture

Climate change and its financial repercussions on agriculture are at...

<p>A survey of orchid <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/save-native-bees/">bees</a> in the Brazilian Amazon state of Rondônia, conducted in the 1990s, is casting new light on the effects of deforestation on these important pollinators, which are considered indicators of biodiversity in the neotropics.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The latest study, led by the <a href="https://ku.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Kansas</a>, highlights the resilience and vulnerability of these scent-collecting bees amidst environmental change.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-collecting-orchid-bees-nbsp">Collecting orchid bees&nbsp;</h2>



<p>“This study on orchid bees was an add-on to previous research on stingless bees. Orchid bees are so easy to collect, so we added them to our broader survey of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/bee-diversity-is-critical-to-ecosystems/">bee biodiversity</a> across this rapidly developing region in the Amazon,” said study lead author J. Christopher Brown, a geography &amp; atmospheric science professor at the University of Kansas.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“We’ve known for decades that particular fragrances like eucalyptus oil, for example, attract male orchid bees, which naturally collect similar fragrances from orchids to use in mating. All you do is dip cotton balls into a variety of chemical attractants and hang these on a string in the open air.”</p>



<p>“The bees start arriving in minutes, hovering around the baits and displaying their often metallic-hued blue and green colors. They were among the first types of organisms studied to understand the impact of that deforestation on the general biology and ecology of an area.”&nbsp;</p>



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



<p>The experts pinpointed specific orchid bee species that thrive in both degraded and preserved environments, offering insight into how <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/global-deforestation-crisis-how-can-we-stop-massive-forest-losses/">deforestation</a> influences local ecosystems.</p>



<p>“I had previously seen orchid bees in museum collections, but seeing them in the field was a wholly different experience. It’s breathtaking seeing these bees appear at the baits out of nowhere,” Brown added.&nbsp;</p>



<p>This fieldwork, conducted in collaboration with Marcio Oliveira of the <a href="https://www.gov.br/inpa/pt-br">National Institute for Amazonian Research</a>, led to the collection of significant data on orchid bees across Rondônia, utilizing a unique method that diverged from traditional yearlong studies focused on forest fragments.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-comprehensive-look-at-orchid-bee-diversity">Comprehensive look at orchid bee diversity</h2>



<p>Despite the historical nature of the data, its value remains intact, offering a comprehensive look at orchid bee diversity across a broad geographic area. This work serves as a critical baseline for future biodiversity studies in the region.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“While conventional studies involve yearlong collection efforts in a handful of forest fragments, we sampled the bee population in 130 locations across the state in just an hour at each location. This unconventional approach revealed a wealth of bee diversity previously undocumented by others.”</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-hope-for-lower-deforestation-rates">Hope for lower deforestation rates </h2>



<p>However, the findings also highlighted the detrimental effects of agricultural colonization on bee populations. Brown suggested that conservation efforts might hinge on Brazil's internal politics and economics but also mentioned market-oriented strategies that have shown promise in reducing deforestation.</p>



<p>“We are optimistic that stricter enforcement of environmental laws under Brazil’s new administration will lead to lower deforestation rates in the Amazon,” said Brown. “Our research highlighted the substantial reduction in deforestation resulting from these agreements.”</p>



<p>“In light of this, the question arises: What actions can consumers take? Many of these initiatives are led by prominent environmental organizations that wield influence with both industry and government. When these organizations yield tangible results, individuals may consider contributing to support their endeavors, particularly if the cause aligns with their interests and is scientifically backed. Such contributions can make a discernible impact."</p>



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



<p>Orchid bees are a fascinating group of bees, known scientifically as Euglossini, that are native to the Americas. These bees are known for their striking metallic colors, which can range from vibrant greens and blues to purples and reds.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-lifestyle">Lifestyle</h3>



<p>Unlike many other bee species, orchid bees are solitary, meaning that they do not live in colonies. Each female bee lives and nests independently, constructing her nest in various natural cavities or in the ground.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-mating-secrets">Mating secrets</h3>



<p>The male orchid bees are particularly known for their unique behavior of collecting fragrant compounds from orchids and other sources. They store these scents in specialized pouches in their hind legs, and it is believed that these scents play a crucial role in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/pesticides-make-it-harder-for-male-bees-to-attract-mates/">attracting mates</a>, although the exact mechanisms are still a subject of research.</p>



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



<p>One of the most remarkable aspects of orchid bees is their relationship with orchids. Many species of orchids rely exclusively on these bees for pollination.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Orchid bees have long, coiled tongues, adapted for accessing nectar from the deep chambers of certain orchids. This mutualistic relationship highlights a fascinating example of co-evolution, where the bees and the orchids have evolved in tandem to meet each other's needs. The bees get food and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/male-bees-create-perfume-from-flowers-to-attract-females/">fragrance compounds</a>, while the orchids receive the benefit of specialized pollinators that ensure their reproduction.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-conservation">Conservation</h3>



<p>Conservation efforts are vital for orchid bees, as they face threats from habitat destruction and fragmentation, which affect their food sources and nesting sites. Preserving tropical and subtropical forests, where these bees are predominantly found, is crucial for maintaining the ecological balance and ensuring the survival of these unique pollinators and the diverse plant life they support.</p>



<p>The study is published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.biocon.2024.110560" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><em>Biological Conservation</em></a><em>.</em></p>



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Orchid bees are endangered by deforestation in the Amazon

A survey of orchid bees in the Brazilian Amazon state...

<p>The ocean is a vibrant ecosystem teeming with life. Sadly, it's sending out distress signals. A recent study suggests that climate change is wreaking far more havoc on marine life than we ever imagined. </p>



<p>Scientists are sounding the alarm that fish and invertebrates (like snails and sea urchins) are caught in the crosshairs, and the effects are profound.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-climate-change-hidden-dangers-for-marine-life">Climate change: Hidden dangers for marine life</h2>



<p>"To gain a better understanding of the overall worldwide impact of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/global-sea-levels-spiked-dramatically-in-2023/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">climate change</a>, marine biologists calculate its effects on all fish or all invertebrate species lumped together," explained lead author Katharina Alter of the Royal Netherlands Institute for Sea Research (<a href="https://www.nioz.nl/en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NIOZ</a>).</p>



<p>This approach to studying the impact of climate change on marine life aims to capture the overall impact across these broad categories. However, this method has a significant limitation. </p>



<p>Let's say climate change affects two different groups of marine animals in opposite ways. For example, warmer and more acidic waters might benefit one group by providing more food sources, while harming another by weakening their shells.</p>



<p>In such a scenario, the averaging approach could mask the true impact. The average result might show minimal change for the entire category, even though individual groups within it are experiencing significant positive or negative effects.</p>



<p>This is precisely what the new study by Dr. Alter and her team aims to address. Their method goes beyond simple averaging and instead focuses on how much individual species deviate from their normal biological state due to climate change. The result? A clearer picture of the damage.</p>



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



<p>With the old method, scientists knew climate change impacts three key areas for <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ripple-effects-of-climate-change-have-created-a-new-ocean/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ocean</a> creatures: lowering survival chances, boosting metabolism, and harming the skeletons of invertebrates.</p>



<p>But this new analysis reveals the impact is broader:</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-physiology">Physiology</h3>



<p>Their basic bodily functions are disturbed. Changes in seawater could disrupt processes like temperature regulation, respiration (taking in oxygen), and waste removal. This is similar to how a human might struggle in extreme heat or at high altitudes.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-reproduction">Reproduction</h3>



<p>It may become harder to create the next generation. This is serious for species already struggling. Warmer waters and ocean acidification can disrupt reproductive cycles, decrease egg or larval survival, and even make it harder for adults to find mates.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-behavior">Behavior</h3>



<p>How they find food, avoid predators - it all could change. Fish or invertebrates might need to change where they live, what they eat, and how they interact with other species. This can make them more vulnerable to predators or unable to find enough food for survival</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-development">Development</h3>



<p>How they grow and mature is altered. Some larvae (the baby stage of many ocean creatures) might not develop correctly in this new environment. Changes in ocean chemistry or temperature could lead to deformities, slower growth rates, or even make larvae more vulnerable to being eaten.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-why-change-in-even-one-species-matters">Why change in even one species matters</h2>



<p>"Both effects matter and even have cascading effects," noted Dr. Alter. Even seemingly small changes in one species can have far-reaching consequences.</p>



<p>For example, imagine climate change alters the feeding patterns of two grazers on the seafloor: sea snails and sea urchins. If sea snails start consuming more algae due to factors like warmer water temperatures, it disrupts the natural balance. </p>



<p>This means there's more algae available overall because the urchins, which typically feed heavily on algae, are now consuming less. While this shift might seem isolated, it can have a ripple effect throughout the ecosystem. </p>



<p>With increased algae comes a decline in kelp forests. Kelp forests are complex underwater ecosystems that provide food and shelter for many species. A decline in kelp could lead to a decrease in fish populations that rely on them for food and habitat.</p>



<p>This domino effect highlights how even seemingly minor changes in individual species can have cascading consequences that impact the entire marine environment. Dr. Alter's study emphasizes the importance of understanding these interconnected relationships to truly comprehend the impact of climate change on our <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/humans-are-substantially-changing-the-seasons-of-the-ocean/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">oceans</a>.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-predictions-of-marine-life-and-climate-change">Predictions of marine life and climate change</h2>



<p>The researchers examined how different levels of atmospheric carbon dioxide would influence the future health of our oceans. This is crucial because excess carbon dioxide from human activities (like burning fossil fuels) is the primary driver of both ocean warming and acidification.</p>



<p>"Our new approach suggests that if ocean warming and acidification continue on the current trajectory, up to 100% of the biological processes in fish and invertebrate species will be affected, while previous research methods found changes in only about 20 and 25% of all processes, respectively," noted Dr. Alter.</p>



<p>Importantly, the study also provides a crucial glimmer of hope. In a scenario where carbon dioxide emissions are significantly reduced, the percentage of affected biological processes drops dramatically. This underscores the power of human action; by mitigating climate change, we have the potential to protect vast swaths of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/marine-sediments-predict-the-impacts-of-ocean-warming/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">marine life</a>.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-saving-marine-life-from-climate-change">Saving marine life from climate change</h2>



<p>To save marine life from climate change, we must act on multiple fronts:</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-reduce-carbon-footprint">Reduce carbon footprint</h3>



<p>Cut down greenhouse gas emissions by transitioning to renewable energy sources, like wind, solar, and hydro power. Reducing your personal carbon footprint through lifestyle changes, such as using public transportation, conserving electricity, and eating a plant-based diet, can also contribute significantly.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-protect-marine-life-from-climate-change">Protect marine life from climate change</h3>



<p>Establish and enforce marine protected areas (MPAs) to safeguard critical habitats, allowing ecosystems to recover and thrive. Restoration projects, such as coral reef restoration and mangrove planting, can also help buffer marine communities against climate change effects.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-promote-sustainable-fishing">Promote sustainable fishing</h3>



<p>Implement and support sustainable fishing practices to prevent overfishing, which weakens marine populations making them more susceptible to the stresses of climate change.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-reduce-pollution">Reduce pollution</h3>



<p>Combat ocean pollution by minimizing plastic use, properly disposing of hazardous materials, and supporting policies and initiatives aimed at keeping our <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/global-warming-may-be-accelerated-by-an-ocean-tipping-point/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">oceans</a> clean.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-support-marine-science-and-conservation">Support marine science and conservation</h3>



<p>Fund and support scientific research focused on understanding and mitigating the impacts of climate change on marine life. Public support for conservation organizations working to protect the ocean can also make a big difference.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-raise-awareness">Raise awareness</h3>



<p>Educate others about the impacts of climate change on marine life and what they can do to help. Awareness leads to action.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-advocate-for-climate-action">Advocate for climate action</h3>



<p>Support policies and initiatives that aim to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and combat climate change on a global scale.</p>



<p>Collective action and changes in policy and personal behavior can significantly contribute to protecting marine life from the adverse effects of climate change.</p>



<p>The study is published in the journal <em><a href="https://doi.org/10.1038/s41467-024-47064-3" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature Communications</a></em>.</p>



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Climate change is impacting marine life more than we realized

The ocean is a vibrant ecosystem teeming with life. Sadly,...

<p>The world has just experienced its hottest March on record, according to the European Union's <a href="https://climate.copernicus.eu/">Copernicus Climate Change Service</a> (C3S). </p>



<p>In a disturbing trend, each of the last ten <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/januarys-record-heat-marks-an-alarming-milestone/">months</a> has shattered previous records for warmth when compared with the corresponding months in prior years.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-acceleration-of-global-warming">Acceleration of global warming</h2>



<p>The latest C3S bulletin highlights the alarming acceleration of global warming, with implications that stretch across ecosystems, economies, and global health. The agency reports that the past 12 months, ending with March, have been the hottest 12-month period ever recorded.&nbsp;</p>



<p>From April 2023 to March 2024, the average global temperature was 1.58 degrees Celsius higher than the pre-industrial averages of 1850-1900. This unprecedented rise in temperatures is a clear indicator of the drastic shifts our planet is undergoing, moving far beyond normal variability and into a new, uncharted <a href="https://www.earth.com/search-results/?search=Record%20heat&amp;start=0">climate regime</a>.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-march-record-wasn-t-exceptional">March record wasn't exceptional</h2>



<p>Samantha Burgess, deputy director of Copernicus Climate Change&nbsp; Service, said March's record-breaking temperature wasn't as exceptional as some other months in the past year that broke records by wider margins.</p>



<p>"It's the long-term trend with exceptional records that has us very concerned,” noted Burgess. She highlighted the consistency of these temperature records as a clear indicator of a rapidly changing climate.</p>



<p>"We've had record-breaking months that have been even more unusual," Burgess said, pointing to February 2024 and September 2023. But the "trajectory is not in the right direction.”</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-alarming-speed-of-global-warming">Alarming speed of global warming</h2>



<p>The continuous setting of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/early-spring-follows-the-hottest-february-on-record/">temperature records</a> month after month serves as a stark reminder that our climate is not just changing, but doing so at an alarming speed.</p>



<p>This warming has had catastrophic effects worldwide, from unleashing a record number of wildfires in the Amazon rainforest region due to drought, exacerbated by climate change, to wiping out crops in Southern Africa, leaving millions facing hunger.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-severe-coral-bleaching-event">Severe coral bleaching event</h2>



<p>One of the most immediate consequences of the rising temperatures is the mass coral bleaching event occurring in the Southern Hemisphere. Marine scientists have warned that this could potentially be the most severe bleaching event in recorded history, primarily driven by <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ocean-temperatures-were-a-driving-force-behind-2023s-record-heat/">warming ocean waters</a>. </p>



<p>The profound impact of these temperature increases on marine ecosystems underscores the interconnectedness of climate systems and the far-reaching effects of global warming.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-biggest-driver-of-global-warming">Biggest driver of global warming </h2>



<p>The primary culprit behind this exceptional heat, according to C3S, is human-induced greenhouse <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/greenhouse-gas-emissions-reach-another-all-time-high/">gas emissions</a>. While natural phenomena such as El Niño, which warms the surface waters of the eastern Pacific Ocean, have also contributed to the temperature rise, the enduring driver of this warming trend is the burning of fossil fuels.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Even as El Niño began to weaken, which might ordinarily signal a potential break in the heat escalation, the world's average sea surface temperature and marine air temperatures soared to record highs.</p>



<p>Friederike Otto, a climate scientist at Imperial College London's Grantham Institute, stressed the pivotal role of fossil fuel emissions in driving planetary warming.&nbsp;</p>



<p>"The main driver of the warming is fossil fuel emissions," said Otto, emphasizing that the continued increase in these emissions would lead to more extreme weather events, including droughts, fires, heatwaves, and heavy rainfall.</p>



<p>"We need more ambitious global action to ensure that we can get to net zero as soon as possible,” said Burgess.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-impacts-of-global-warming">Impacts of global warming</h2>



<p>The impacts of global warming are extensive and multifaceted, affecting nearly every aspect of life on Earth. As the planet's average temperature continues to rise, we're witnessing more than just hotter weather. The consequences are both far-reaching and deeply interconnected.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ecological-threats">Ecological threats</h3>



<p>Ecologically, global warming is leading to a loss of biodiversity. Warmer temperatures disrupt habitats and ecosystems, making survival increasingly difficult for many species.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Polar ice caps and glaciers are melting at unprecedented rates, contributing to rising sea levels and altering the landscapes of coastal communities. This not only threatens the natural habitats of countless species but also increases the frequency and severity of natural disasters like hurricanes and floods, which further endangers wildlife.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-human-impacts">Human impacts</h3>



<p>The impacts on human societies are equally severe. Agriculture faces significant threats from changing weather patterns, with droughts, floods, and unpredictable temperatures affecting crop yields and food security. This, in turn, can lead to higher food prices and increased risk of hunger in vulnerable populations.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Moreover, as habitats shift and extreme weather events become more common, human health is at risk from increasing incidences of diseases, heat-related illnesses, and respiratory problems due to poorer air quality.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-economic-impacts">Economic impacts</h3>



<p>Economically, the repercussions of global warming are profound. Damage from extreme weather events, such as hurricanes, wildfires, and floods, requires substantial financial resources for recovery and rebuilding. Industries like agriculture, fishing, and tourism, heavily dependent on specific climate conditions, face uncertain futures, potentially leading to job losses and economic instability.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Furthermore, the costs associated with mitigating climate change impacts and transitioning to renewable energy sources, while necessary for long-term sustainability, require significant upfront investment.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-societal-impacts">Societal impacts</h3>



<p>Socially, the effects of global warming exacerbate existing inequalities. Often, the communities least responsible for carbon emissions are the most vulnerable to the planet's changing climate. Poorer communities and countries, which have fewer resources to adapt to climate change, face the greatest risks from its impacts.&nbsp;</p>



<p>This can lead to increased migration, as people are forced to leave their homes due to sea-level rise, desertification, or extreme weather, potentially leading to conflict and further social unrest.</p>



<p>-----</p>



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March was the hottest on record in alarming 10-month streak

The world has just experienced its hottest March on record,...

Great,Barrier,Reef.,Whitsundays.,Queensland,Australia

<p>The Great Barrier Reef, our planet's precious underwater ecosystem, has faced years of devastation due to rising water temperatures. Sadly, "<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/recent-coral-recovery-in-the-great-barrier-reef-has-paused/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">coral bleaching</a>," a stark visual sign of reef damage from warming waters, has become far too frequent in many areas and zones of coral reefs around the world.</p>



<p>However, a new study brings a complex mix of hope and warning: deeper parts of the reef seem to be somewhat shielded from the heat, but only up to a certain point.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-distinct-coral-reef-zones">Distinct coral reef zones</h2>



<p>Coral reefs consist of distinct zones. Each zone has conditions tied to light levels, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/deepest-known-coral-reef-bleaching-discovered-alarming-scientists/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">water temperature</a>, and wave energy. </p>



<p>They also differ in aspects of warming and nutrient availability. These varying conditions shape the types of corals and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/microbes-reveal-the-health-of-coral-reefs-in-real-time/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">other organisms</a> that can thrive in each zone.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-shallow-reefs">Shallow reefs</h3>



<p>The <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/satellites-discover-huge-expanse-of-earths-coral-reefs-that-were-previously-unknown/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">uppermost zone</a>, bathed in sunlight, is where most people think of when they picture a coral reef. This area is crucial for photosynthesis, allowing corals to partner with algae for energy. However, this zone is most vulnerable to extreme heat events driven by climate change.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-mesophotic-reefs">Mesophotic reefs</h3>



<p>Scientists from the <a href="https://www.exeter.ac.uk/">University of Exeter</a> and the <a href="https://www.uq.edu.au" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Queensland</a> focused their research on a deeper zone called the "mesophotic coral reef." </p>



<p>This region exists in a twilight zone roughly 30-50 meters below the surface. Dimmer light penetrates to this depth, but it's significantly less than the shallow reefs receive.</p>



<p>Ocean water isn't static – currents, tides, and winds affect how different layers interact. Warmer surface water, driven hotter by climate change, doesn't always blend thoroughly with the naturally cooler water in deeper regions. </p>



<p>Fortunately, this incomplete mixing can create a temperature buffer, temporarily shielding <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/coral-reef-plastic-pollution-increases-with-depth-and-near-protected-areas/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">mesophotic reefs</a> from some of the immediate effects of surface-level warming.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-hope-and-the-catch">The hope (and the catch)</h2>



<p>"Coral reefs are a stark indicator of the widespread damage climate change causes to ecosystems," says Dr. Jennifer McWhorter of NOAA's Atlantic Oceanographic &amp; Meteorological Laboratory (<a href="https://www.aoml.noaa.gov/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">AOML</a>), who led the study. "Our study highlights a potential <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/coral-reefs-in-some-parts-of-the-world-actually-benefit-from-warming-el-nino-events/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">area of resilience</a> within the reefs, but also a clear limit to that resilience if warming continues."</p>



<p>The news from the study isn't all positive. There's a crucial caveat: this natural buffer zone provided by incomplete water mixing won't last indefinitely. The research team warns that if global warming surpasses 3°C above pre-industrial levels, the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/massive-study-provides-answers-to-how-coral-reefs-can-survive-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">protective effect</a> will disappear.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-maintaining-coral-reef-zone-temperature-differences">Maintaining coral reef zone temperature differences</h2>



<p>As global temperatures rise, the difference in temperature between surface and deep water layers lessens. This weaker thermal gradient reduces the resistance to mixing, allowing warmer surface water to penetrate deeper. </p>



<p>The result? Mesophotic reefs, once shielded, would become exposed to the same harmful heat currently stressing shallow reefs. </p>



<p>The study suggests that if global warming reaches 3°C, temperatures in mesophotic zones of 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> would surpass 30°C. This is a critical threshold for many coral species. </p>



<p>Extended exposure to such temperatures can trigger widespread coral bleaching and mortality events. These die-offs could significantly disrupt the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/microbes-have-a-surprising-influence-on-coral-bleaching/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">reef ecosystem</a>, impacting the entire food chain and potentially leading to reef collapse.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-deep-coral-reef-zones-and-warming">Deep coral reef zones and warming</h2>



<p>While the existence of mesophotic reefs zones offers a glimmer of hope to warming, it's important to understand the limitations of this potential refuge. The shallow and deeper zones of a coral reef ecosystem are not interchangeable. </p>



<p>Certain coral species are specifically adapted to the high light levels found in the shallows. These <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/access-to-sunlight-is-critical-for-the-survival-of-coral-reefs/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">sunlight-dependent corals</a>, often vibrantly colored and brimming with symbiotic algae, wouldn't be able to survive in the dimmer environment of the mesophotic zone. </p>



<p>Even if the deeper communities persevere through rising temperatures, the loss of these shallow-water species would still inflict a devastating blow on the overall biodiversity and health of the reef ecosystem. </p>



<p>Imagine a lush rainforest losing all its flowering trees – the ecosystem would still exist, but its character and ecological functions would be fundamentally altered. In essence, the potential survival of mesophotic reefs wouldn't guarantee the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/restored-coral-reefs-can-bounce-back-in-just-four-years/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">complete restoration</a> of the entire coral reef ecosystem.</p>



<p>"Some shallow-water species are not found in deeper areas, so mesophotic reefs can’t fully replace them as shallow reefs are degraded," notes Dr. McWhorter.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-warming-risks-on-mesophotic-reefs">Warming risks on mesophotic reefs</h2>



<p>To assess the future risk to mesophotic reefs, scientists employed a multi-faceted approach. They weaved together climate change projections, which predict the overall rise in global temperatures, with specific details about how the ocean layers in this region typically mix. </p>



<p>Factors like currents, tides, and wind patterns complexly influence this water mixing phenomenon. By incorporating these layers and their mixing tendencies, scientists were able to create a more nuanced picture of how <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/coral-bleaching-releases-bacteria-that-put-further-strain-on-reefs/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">future warming</a> might specifically affect the mesophotic zone of the Great Barrier Reef. </p>



<p>Their calculations paint a concerning scenario: even under the most optimistic outlook with reduced greenhouse gas emissions, these deeper zones are predicted to warm by at least 0.5°C by 2050-60. </p>



<p>This warming effect intensifies significantly if emissions remain high, with projections suggesting a temperature increase of 1.2-1.7°C in the mesophotic zone.</p>



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



<p>This research highlights the urgency of fighting climate change and the complex ways it disrupts ocean life. To save <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/coral-reef-study-proves-humans-are-major-ecosystem-disruptors/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">coral reef ecosystems</a>, we need a multifaceted strategy:</p>



<p>The study reaffirms the non-negotiable priority of drastically reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Addressing the root cause of rising ocean temperatures is paramount for the survival of coral reefs, both shallow and mesophotic. </p>



<p>The longer we delay action on this front, the more widespread and severe the damage will be. By reducing emissions swiftly, we can buy precious time, allowing more areas of the reef to maintain the natural protection offered by their current temperature differences.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-conservation-of-reefs-from-warming">Conservation of reefs from warming</h2>



<p>Dr. Paul Halloran of Exeter's Global Systems Institute (<a href="https://www.exeter.ac.uk/research/institutes/gsi/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">GSI</a>) stresses the need for targeted conservation efforts. This means focusing resources and management strategies on the reefs that exhibit the best chances of survival in a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/warming-oceans-intensify-viruses-that-kill-coral-reefs/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">warming world</a>. </p>



<p>Identifying these potentially more resilient areas involves careful study of local conditions that might influence ocean mixing, as well as factors that can contribute to reef health even in the face of some warming. </p>



<p>By adopting this strategic approach, we can increase the likelihood of maintaining some pockets of healthy reef ecosystems despite the broader challenges.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-knowledge-is-power">Knowledge is power</h2>



<p>Professor Peter Mumby of the University of Queensland emphasizes the vast amount we still have to learn about the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/some-corals-survive-warming-waters-by-remembering-heat-waves/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">complex environments</a> of deeper, tropical coral reefs. Expanding our scientific understanding of these ecosystems is crucial. </p>



<p>Identifying how they differ from shallow reefs is crucial. We need to understand why certain areas are more resilient. Discovering how they might be interconnected will equip us with the knowledge needed. </p>



<p>This knowledge is essential for informed and effective protection efforts. Research and ongoing monitoring will be vital tools in the fight to conserve coral reefs.</p>



<p>The Great Barrier Reef is a wonder of the world, and its plight is a call to action. This study provides a nuanced look at the situation, highlighting both some temporary resilience and the urgency of addressing the root cause.</p>



<p>The paper is published in the journal&nbsp;<em><a href="https://doi.org/10.1073/pnas.2303336121" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences</a></em>.</p>



<p>-----</p>



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Deeper zones of global coral reefs are currently safe from warming waters

The Great Barrier Reef, our planet's precious underwater ecosystem, has...

<p>The relentless march of climate change poses an unprecedented challenge to coastal defenses worldwide. Traditional "hard" measures like concrete sea walls, while historically favored for their protective capabilities, are increasingly under scrutiny for their environmental impact and sustainability.&nbsp;</p>



<p>A recent study led by the <a href="https://www.u-tokyo.ac.jp/en/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Tokyo</a> suggests that integrating nature-based solutions with conventional coastal defense strategies could provide a more adaptable and sustainable approach to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/salt-marshes-have-reduced-coastal-flooding-for-centuries/">managing coastal risks</a>.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-traditional-coastal-defenses-can-t-keep-pace-nbsp">Traditional coastal defenses can't keep pace&nbsp;</h2>



<p>“Sea walls, dikes, dams and breakwaters, the so-called traditional hard measures, despite being the most popular coastal defenses globally and with proven track records, are facing challenges to keep pace with increasing climate risks,” explained lead author Lam Thi Mai Huynh, a doctoral student in sustainability science at the University of Tokyo.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“These hard structures are expensive to build and require continuous upgrades and repairs as <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/sea-level-rise-will-cost-coastal-cities-over-1-trillion-in-damages/">sea level rises</a> and climatic hazards become stronger. Although they are good at mitigating certain coastal disaster risks, they can also cause significant disruption to coastal communities and have adverse environmental effects.”&nbsp;</p>



<p>“Furthermore, they often significantly alter the seascape and sometimes alienate local communities from nature and the very environment we seek to protect.”</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-assessing-the-efficacy-of-various-coastal-defenses">Assessing the efficacy of various coastal defenses</h2>



<p>In their study, the researchers assessed the efficacy of various coastal defenses by reviewing 304 academic articles. They categorized the defenses into four types: natural environments, soft measures that enhance natural elements, hard measures like concrete barriers, and hybrid solutions that combine elements of the first three categories.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Soft and hybrid approaches were found to be more cost-effective than purely hard solutions, with hybrids offering the greatest hazard reduction in low-risk settings.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Despite the lack of data on their performance during high-risk, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-does-extreme-weather-impact-marine-ecosystems/">extreme weather</a> events, these findings advocate for the strategic incorporation of natural elements into coastal defense plans.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-protecting-coastlines-and-their-natural-beauty">Protecting coastlines and their natural beauty</h2>



<p>Japan's struggle to protect its coastlines while preserving natural beauty illustrates the complexity of this challenge.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Once renowned for its untouched coastal landscapes, nearly 40% of Japan's coastline had been modified by the early 1990s, trading natural vistas for concrete fortifications in response to the threats of tsunamis, typhoon swells, and rising sea levels.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-potential-of-hybrid-coastal-defenses-nbsp">The potential of hybrid coastal defenses&nbsp;</h2>



<p>This study underscores the potential of hybrid coastal defenses, which utilize both hard and nature-based solutions, to offer effective risk reduction while preserving environmental integrity. “Our results indicate that among all coastal defense options in lower-risk areas, hybrid measures provide the highest risk reduction.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Hybrid measures can harness the advantages of both hard and soft measures. They provide the immediacy of an engineered barrier while largely maintaining the ecological functionality of a permeable vegetated zone,” Huynh explained.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-further-research-is-needed-nbsp">Further research is needed&nbsp;</h2>



<p>Senior author Alexandros Gasparatos from the Institute for Future Initiatives at the University of Tokyo emphasized the innovative nature of such strategies, though he cautioned that they are not a panacea for all coastal challenges.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The team highlighted the importance of further research, particularly experiments in high-risk situations, to better understand the comparative effectiveness of different coastal defense strategies during extreme events.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-cautious-expansion-of-nature-based-solutions">Cautious expansion of nature-based solutions</h2>



<p>Despite these uncertainties, the researchers advocate for the cautious expansion of nature-based solutions in coastal defense strategies, especially in areas of lower risk. Such approaches not only mitigate climate change impacts and store carbon but also reconnect communities with their natural surroundings and promote <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/emerging-issues-that-may-impact-marine-biodiversity-are-poorly-understood/">biodiversity</a>.</p>



<p>“I firmly believe that we must think more carefully about the design and function of these barriers in this era of ever-accelerating climate change. Not only can nature-based solutions contribute to risk reduction and climate mitigation in many areas, but they can also help reconnect people with nature and support biodiversity,” said Huynh.</p>



<p>“Greening our coastlines can create spaces which enhance quality of life, foster community well-being and inspire environmental stewardship.”</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-natural-coastal-defenses">Natural coastal defenses</h2>



<p>The best natural coastal defenses offer protection against coastal erosion, flooding, and storm damage. They enhance the resilience of coastlines while supporting biodiversity and local communities. Here are some of the most effective natural coastal defenses:</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-mangroves">Mangroves</h3>



<p><a href="https://www.earth.com/news/machine-learning-could-help-save-mangrove-forests/">Mangrove forests</a> are highly effective at reducing wave energy, trapping sediments, and stabilizing shorelines. They can absorb more wave energy than constructed seawalls and reduce the height of waves passing through them.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-coral-reefs">Coral reefs</h3>



<p>Acting as natural breakwaters, coral reefs can dissipate up to 97% of wave energy before it reaches the shore. This reduces erosion and protects coastal habitats and communities from storm surges and sea-level rise.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-salt-marshes">Salt marshes</h3>



<p>These coastal wetlands are effective at absorbing wave energy and trapping sediments, which helps to stabilize shorelines and reduce coastal flooding. Salt marshes also provide habitat for a variety of wildlife.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-seagrass-beds">Seagrass beds</h3>



<p>Seagrasses stabilize the seabed, reduce wave energy, and prevent erosion. They also contribute to carbon sequestration and support marine biodiversity.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-sand-dunes">Sand dunes</h3>



<p>Dunes act as barriers against storm surges and high waves, protecting inland areas from flooding and erosion. Vegetation on dunes can stabilize them and help in their recovery after storms.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-oyster-reefs">Oyster reefs</h3>



<p>Similar to coral reefs, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/self-repairing-oyster-reefs-will-help-protect-coastlines/">oyster reefs</a> can buffer shorelines against wave action, stabilize sediments, and reduce erosion. They also improve water quality by filtering out pollutants.</p>



<p>The study is published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1038/s41467-024-46970-w" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><em>Nature Communications</em></a><em>.</em></p>



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Nature-based solutions improve coastal defenses

The relentless march of climate change poses an unprecedented challenge...

<p>A new study led by an international team of scientists has revealed that peregrine falcons across North America are burdened with a legacy of pollution from flame retardants, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/environmentally-friendly-flame-retardants/">chemicals</a> added to various consumer products to meet flammability standards. </p>



<p>Despite their intended safety purpose, these chemicals often fail to perform and have a propensity to leach into the environment, posing risks to wildlife and humans alike. According to the experts, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/peregrine-falcons-have-a-unique-and-successful-hunting-strategy/">falcons</a> are still accumulating flame retardants that have been discontinued for years.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-long-term-consequences-of-flame-retardants-nbsp">Long-term consequences of flame retardants&nbsp;</h2>



<p>“Our results expose the long-term consequences of adding flame retardants to consumer products,” said senior author Da Chen, a scientist at <a href="https://english.jnu.edu.cn/">Jinan University</a>.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“As globally distributed apex predators, the peregrine falcon is the ideal canary in the coal mine for monitoring flame retardant pollution in the environment. Flame retardants phased out a decade ago are still accumulating in these birds and into their eggs, which indicates that the threats of these chemicals to wildlife and people can far outlast their production.”</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-contaminated-peregrine-falcon-eggs">Contaminated peregrine falcon eggs</h2>



<p>The study, the most comprehensive of its kind in terms of both time span and geographical coverage, analyzed peregrine falcon eggs collected from various locations across the US and Canada between 1984 and 2016.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The researchers found that polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) were not only the most detected flame retardants but also had the highest concentrations in the eggs.&nbsp;</p>



<p>While the production of major PBDE mixtures ceased in North America well before the study period ended, their presence in falcon populations did not diminish. Similarly, hexabromocyclododecane (HBCDD), another flame retardant phased out since 2012, was found in the majority of eggs, with concentrations showing no signs of decreasing.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-persistence-of-flame-retardants-nbsp">Persistence of flame retardants&nbsp;</h2>



<p>The persistence of these chemicals in the environment is attributed to their release from products manufactured before their phase-out and their accumulation through food chains, affecting apex predators like peregrine falcons. The findings underscore the inefficacy of simply ceasing the production of harmful substances without addressing their long-lasting impact.</p>



<p>Although regulated halogenated flame retardants remained prevalent or even increased, the use of non-halogenated and polymeric flame retardants has risen as alternatives. However, these substances appear to be also linked to health and environmental concerns.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-many-species-are-impacted">Many species are impacted</h2>



<p>The issue of flame retardant pollution is not exclusive to peregrine falcons. <a href="https://greensciencepolicy.org/">The Green Science Policy Institute</a> has documented over 150 species worldwide, from <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/killer-whales-dietary-preferences-expose-them-to-pollutants/">killer whales</a> to red pandas and chimpanzees, contaminated with both old and new flame retardant chemicals.&nbsp;</p>



<p>This widespread contamination highlights the urgent need for reevaluating the use of flame retardants in consumer products and the importance of finding safer alternatives to protect both wildlife and human health.</p>



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



<p>Peregrine falcons are among the most widely recognized birds of prey and are notable for their remarkable speed and agility. These birds are medium-sized falcons that are not only admired for their hunting prowess but also for their breathtaking flying abilities.&nbsp;</p>



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



<p>Peregrine falcons have a distinctive appearance, characterized by a blue-grey back, barred white underparts, and a black head with large, dark eyes. One of the most striking features of the peregrine falcon is its incredible speed; during a hunting dive, known as a stoop, it can reach speeds over 200 miles per hour, making it the fastest animal in the world.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-distribution">Distribution</h3>



<p>Peregrine falcons are found all over the world, inhabiting a wide range of environments including urban areas, where they nest on tall buildings and bridges, as well as more traditional cliff-side habitats. Their adaptability to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/study-of-peregrine-falcons-suggests-birds-have-a-migration-gene/">different environments</a> is one reason for their global presence. They feed primarily on other birds, which they catch in mid-air with a stunning display of aerial agility.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-conservation-of-peregrine-falcons">Conservation of peregrine falcons </h3>



<p>These falcons have played a significant role in human culture and falconry for thousands of years, revered for their speed, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/wild-falcons-are-highly-intelligent-and-eager-to-show-it/">intelligence</a>, and hunting skills. Conservation efforts in the late 20th century have helped recover peregrine falcon populations that were once threatened by pesticide use, particularly DDT. Today, they are considered a conservation success story, with strong populations in many parts of the world.</p>



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



<p>Peregrine falcons mate for life and are known for their impressive aerial courtship displays. They typically nest in a scrape, usually on cliff edges or, in urban environments, tall structures. The female lays a clutch of eggs, which both parents then incubate and care for once hatched.</p>



<p>The recovery of the peregrine falcon from the brink of extinction is not just a testament to the resilience of this remarkable bird but also a powerful example of how concerted conservation efforts can lead to the recovery of a species.</p>



<p>The study is published in the journal <a href="https://pubs.acs.org/doi/10.1021/acs.est.3c10907"><em>Environmental Science &amp; Technology</em></a>.</p>



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Peregrine falcons suffer long-term harm from chemicals in consumer products

A new study led by an international team of scientists...

Wide,Angle,View,Of,Child,Girl,Draws,Planet,Earth,With

<p>You've heard it all before – the planet is heating up, ice caps are melting, and we're all doomed unless we <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ipcc-climate-action-urgently-needed-to-end-human-suffering/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">act now</a>. But does this "gloom and doom" approach using climate messages actually make people want to help? A surprising new study suggests there might be a better way.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-to-talk-about-the-climate-crisis">How to talk about the climate crisis</h2>



<p>Researchers wanted to find the absolute best ways to spread awareness about <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/indisputable-evidence-of-human-caused-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">climate change</a> – the tactics most likely to actually get people to do something. They weren't just interested in theoretical solutions. </p>



<p>They developed an app to test different <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/media-coverage-of-climate-change-fails-to-inspire-action/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">communication strategies</a> and partnered with a massive international survey including nearly 60,000 people from 63 countries (including Norway). This hands-on approach helped them gather real-world feedback on what messages resonate best.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-bad-news-scary-climate-messages-might-backfire">Bad news: Scary climate messages might backfire</h2>



<p>Turns out, those scary "end-of-the-world" <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/climate-change-takes-a-major-toll-on-childrens-health/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">warnings we hear</a> so often might work for getting folks to share social media posts, but don't always translate into real action. Here's the problem:</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-lazy-action">Lazy action</h3>



<p>People may feel like they've made a meaningful contribution to the cause simply by sharing a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/scientists-climate-change-and-biodiversity-loss-are-one-indivisible-global-health-crisis/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">dramatic message</a> online. This requires minimal effort and can create the illusion of having taken significant action when, in reality, it might not lead to any tangible change.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-negative-reinforcement">Negative reinforcement</h3>



<p>Scare tactics can alienate and further discourage individuals who are already skeptical about the severity or urgency of climate change. These messages can be <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/clear-and-dynamic-visuals-are-important-when-presenting-climate-change-science/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">perceived as manipulative</a> or exaggerated, leading to increased skepticism rather than a sense of shared responsibility.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-limited-results">Limited results</h3>



<p>Even when scare tactics do lead to some <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/star-studded-lineup-to-join-march-to-end-fossil-fuels-this-week/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">level of engagement</a>, they primarily motivate low-effort actions like social media sharing. They rarely inspire people to make lifestyle changes, support climate-friendly policies, or engage in activities that have a real-world impact, such as planting trees.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-alternatives-to-panic-driven-climate-messages">Alternatives to panic-driven climate messages</h2>



<p>The researchers tested <em>many</em> approaches. Here are a few that got more positive (and surprising) results:</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-power-of-knowledge">The power of knowledge</h3>



<p>In some countries, simply stating the broad agreement among experts ("99% of climate experts believe the planet is getting warmer...") significantly boosted support for climate action. </p>



<p>This approach leverages the human tendency to trust <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/why-disinformation-is-a-persistent-scourge-in-the-battle-against-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">credible sources</a> of information. When presented with evidence of overwhelming consensus among experts, people are more likely to accept the reality of climate change and the need to address it.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-dear-future-me">Dear future me...</h3>



<p>Asking people to write a letter to a loved one describing what they did to help the planet in 2055 was effective in many countries. This emotional connection got people thinking. </p>



<p>This strategy works because it forces people to visualize the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/global-drought-crisis-un-warns-of-unprecedented-emergency/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">future consequences</a> of their actions (or inaction) today. It fosters a sense of personal responsibility and encourages long-term thinking, making climate change feel more immediate and relevant.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-personal-touch">Personal touch</h3>



<p>Messages focused on moral responsibility ("It's up to us to protect the planet") or highlighting how many others are already worried about <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/protecting-land-is-the-best-tool-to-address-the-climate-crisis/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">climate change</a> often resulted in greater support. These tactics tap into two powerful motivators:</p>



<ul>
<li><strong>Moral obligation</strong>: Emphasizing our ethical duty to protect the planet can stir a sense of collective responsibility and inspire action.<br></li>



<li><strong>Social proof</strong>: Knowing that others care about climate change creates a sense of social belonging and can reduce feelings of isolation or hopelessness.</li>
</ul>



<p>“Writing a letter to future generations is most effective in increasing political support for climate measures, and in increasing the belief that climate change is a problem. The second most effective measure is to say that almost all climate experts agree,” explained Professor Christian Klöckner of the Norwegian University of Science and Technology-<a href="https://www.ntnu.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NTNU</a>.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-climate-messages-in-norway">Climate messages in Norway</h2>



<p>Norwegians were put off by all the doomsday messaging. Instead, they respond best to messages focused on:</p>



<ul>
<li><strong>Taking action</strong>: Planting trees is seen favorably.<br></li>



<li><strong>Moral duty</strong>: Emphasize our shared responsibility to the planet.<br></li>



<li><strong>Consensus</strong>: Most people here already believe the science – reminding them of this is persuasive.</li>
</ul>



<p>A big takeaway is that people respond differently based on where they live and what they already believe. For instance, what works in Norway is quite different than other parts of the world.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ways-to-share-our-message-on-climate-change">Ways to share our message on climate change</h2>



<p>"The findings show that spreading a climate message depends on people's attitudes towards climate change in the first place. Legislators and campaigners must adapt their messaging to the public," says Madalina Vlasceanu, Assistant Professor at New York University (<a href="https://www.nyu.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NYU</a>).</p>



<p>The next time you're discussing climate change, think before you share that panicked post. While there's certainly a time and place to express urgency, consider these study-backed tips:</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-know-your-audience">Know your audience</h3>



<p>Are you talking to someone already concerned, or someone who needs convincing? Tailor your message accordingly.</p>



<ul>
<li><strong>Already concerned</strong>: <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/climate-collapse-un-chief-urges-cop28-leaders-to-get-us-out-of-deep-trouble/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Focus on action</a>. Share specific ways they can get involved (volunteering, supporting local climate initiatives, changing their own habits) and emphasize that every effort contributes.<br></li>



<li><strong>Needs convincing</strong>: Start with common ground. Do they <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/un-report-disturbing-details-about-the-state-of-earths-wildlife/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">value nature</a>, their children's future, the health of their community? Connect climate change to things they already care about. Avoid overwhelming them with stats; a few key facts can be persuasive.</li>
</ul>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-focus-on-solutions">Focus on solutions</h3>



<p>What can people do? Provide concrete steps, not just fear. Break it down into manageable actions, from small (changing light bulbs) to larger commitments (advocating for climate-friendly policies).</p>



<p>Highlight positive success stories of individuals or communities already making a difference. This offers a blueprint and combats feelings of helplessness.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-include-local-matters-in-climate-messages">Include local matters in climate messages</h3>



<p>Climate impacts hit different <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/fishing-communities-cooperate-to-survive-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">communities</a> differently. Bring it closer to home.</p>



<p>Instead of talking about melting glaciers, discuss how climate change might impact your region – increased wildfires, flooding, or threats to local agriculture. Connect these changes to things people value, like outdoor recreation, food security, or the local economy.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-hope-over-fear">Hope over fear</h3>



<p>Remind people that working together, we can make a difference. While it's important to be realistic about the challenges, end the conversation with optimism and empowerment.</p>



<p>Emphasize that solutions exist, and that collective action creates momentum. People are more likely to engage when they feel their actions matter.</p>



<p>The full study is published in <a href="https://www.science.org/doi/10.1126/sciadv.adj5778" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><em>Science Advances</em></a>.</p>



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Can panic-driven climate messages save the planet? Maybe not

You've heard it all before – the planet is heating...

<p>Research from the <a href="https://www.unsw.edu.au/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of New South Wales</a> (UNSW) in Australia, in collaboration with international partners, has brought to light the concerning levels of per- and poly-fluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) contamination. The results of the study reveal that we have underestimated the amount of PFAS in source waters across the globe. </p>



<p>These <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/banning-forever-chemicals-may-threaten-us-national-security/">chemicals</a>, numbering over 14,000, have been valued since the 1950s for their remarkable properties, including resistance to heat, water, grease, and stains, leading to their prevalence in a vast array of consumer and industrial products. </p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-forever-chemicals-nbsp">Forever chemicals&nbsp;</h2>



<p>From non-stick pans and waterproof apparel to cosmetics, insecticides, food packaging, and even firefighting foams, PFAS compounds have been integrated into daily life, despite their environmental and health risks.</p>



<p>Labeled as “<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/epa-reveals-new-evidence-of-forever-chemicals-in-drinking-water/">forever chemicals</a>” due to their persistent nature, PFAS compounds hardly degrade in the environment or the human body, posing long-term ecological and health risks.&nbsp;</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-pfas-contamination-in-water-sources">PFAS contamination in water sources</h2>



<p>Now, the UNSW experts have provided a pioneering global assessment of PFAS contamination in surface and groundwater sources, revealing widespread exceedances of established safe drinking water thresholds for these chemicals.</p>



<p>“Many of our source waters are above PFAS regulatory limits,” said senior author Denis O’Carroll, a professor of engineering at UNSW. “We already knew that PFAS is pervasive in the environment, but I was surprised to find out the large fraction of source waters that are above drinking water advisory recommendations. We're talking above five percent, and it goes over 50 percent in some cases.”</p>



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



<p>This comprehensive study, aggregating over 45,000 data points from government reports, databases, and peer-reviewed literature collected over roughly two decades, is the first to quantify the environmental load of PFAS on such a scale.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The researchers found high levels of PFAS in various regions, including Australia, particularly in areas historically exposed to firefighting foams, such as military and fire training facilities.</p>



<p>“Drinking water is largely safe, and I don't hesitate drinking it,” O’Caroll said. “I also don’t suggest that bottled water is better, because it doesn’t mean that they’ve done anything differently than what comes out of the tap. But I certainly think that monitoring PFAS levels and making the data easily available is worthwhile.”&nbsp;</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-health-implications-of-pfas">Health implications of PFAS</h2>



<p>In Australia, as well as in numerous other regions globally, it's common for individuals to have trace amounts of PFAS in their system. However, the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/pfas-crisis-humans-are-early-warning-system-for-wildlife-impacts/">health implications</a> of these chemicals remain a topic of debate, with a lack of universal consensus on the extent of their risk.</p>



<p>For instance, an expert health panel in Australia has indicated that the evidence linking PFAS exposure to significant health impacts is minimal to non-existent. However, international health organizations in the US and Europe associate PFAS exposure with a range of negative health effects, including decreased birth weights, elevated <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/good-cholesterol-may-increase-the-risk-of-dementia/">cholesterol</a> levels, diminished kidney functionality, thyroid disorders, changes in sex hormone levels, weaker vaccine efficacy, and an increased risk of liver, kidney, and testicular cancers. Moreover, the <a href="https://www.who.int/">World Health Organisation</a> (WHO) classified PFOA, a variant of PFAS, as a category one human carcinogen in 2023.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-controls-on-pfas-usage">Controls on PFAS usage</h2>



<p>While associations between PFAS and various health conditions have been identified, causation has not been definitively established. Nevertheless, due to the enduring presence of these substances and their associated health risks, regulatory agencies worldwide have implemented stricter controls on PFAS usage and established safety limits for <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/epa-reveals-new-evidence-of-forever-chemicals-in-drinking-water/">drinking water</a> as a precautionary measure.</p>



<p>"Two forms of PFAS initially raised concerns about 20 years ago: PFOS and PFOA," said O’Carroll. "These chemicals are regulated to different extents around the world. In the US, the proposed drinking water limits for PFOS and PFOA are four nanograms per liter."</p>



<p>In Australia, another PFAS compound, PFHxS, is subject to regulation, with a combined limit for PFOS and PFHxS set at 70 nanograms per liter, significantly exceeding the US's threshold for PFOS and PFOA.</p>



<p>"PFOA, on the other hand, is regulated in Australia at 560 nanograms per liter, which is two orders of magnitude higher than in the US," O’Carroll added.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-level-of-pfas-is-safe">What level of PFAS is safe?</h2>



<p>Compared to the regulations in the US, Australia's standards appear more lenient. Yet, when compared with Canada's approach, which aggregates the total of all 14,000 PFAS compounds and caps them at 30 nanograms per liter, both the Australian and US guidelines seem less stringent.</p>



<p>The research revealed that 69 percent of worldwide <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/groundwater-depletion-is-accelerating-but-it-is-not-inevitable/">groundwater</a> samples, lacking known sources of contamination, surpassed <a href="https://www.canada.ca/en/health-canada.html">Health Canada</a>'s safety benchmarks for drinking water, while 32 percent exceeded the US's hazard index for drinking water.</p>



<p>“There’s debate about what level PFAS should be regulated to,” O’Carroll added. “Australia has much higher limits than the US, but the question is why. Both health bodies would have different reasoning for that, and there’s not a really strong consensus here.”&nbsp;</p>



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



<p>In light of the findings, the researchers aim to deepen the understanding of PFAS pollution by investigating the environmental impact of PFAS compounds in consumer products and developing new technologies to mitigate PFAS in drinking water systems. Furthermore, predictive models are in development to forecast the distribution of PFAS in the environment and their interaction with biological systems.</p>



<p>As this significant research unfolds, Professor O’Carroll urges manufacturers and consumers to exercise caution and responsibility in the use of PFAS-containing products.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“We manufacture and distribute a lot of chemicals without having a full assessment on their potential health impacts. We should have judicious use of some of these chemicals. Just because they’re available, doesn't mean that we should use them,” he concluded.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The study is published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1038/s41561-024-01402-8" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><em>Nature Geoscience</em></a><em>.</em></p>



<p>-----</p>



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Global source water exceeds safe drinking limits of PFAS

Research from the University of New South Wales (UNSW) in...

<p>Climate change is casting a long shadow over global security, as new research reveals a significant correlation between <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/global-climate-adaptation-lacks-coordination/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">environmental changes</a> and shifts in terrorist activity.</p>



<p>This exploratory study, led by Dr. Jared Dmello from the <a href="https://www.adelaide.edu.au" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Adelaide</a>'s School of Social Sciences, underscores the complex ways in which climate change directly impacts patterns of terrorism.</p>



<p>Consequently, this marks a critical advancement in our understanding of global security dynamics.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-climate-change-and-terrorists">Climate change and terrorists </h2>



<p>The study carefully examined how weather factors like temperature, rainfall, and altitude relate to terrorism in India. </p>



<p>Dr. Dmello explains, "Our suitability analyses show a clear connection between all tested climatological variables and the changing patterns of terrorist activity." </p>



<p>The findings indicate that as cities become more crowded, especially those with <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/limiting-global-warming-to-1-5-degrees-celsius-would-save-billions-of-lives/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">better climates</a>, extremists are forced to leave their traditional areas. These places have become less livable because of changing weather conditions.</p>



<p>Furthermore, the research extends beyond the sites of attacks, indicating that climate change likely impacts other aspects of extremist behavior. Consequently, environmental changes also affect the choice of locations where they train.</p>



<p>"The average <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/deadly-heatwaves-from-climate-change-endanger-indias-development/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">temperatures in India</a> hit record highs during our study, providing a comprehensive backdrop to assess the intersection of climate change and extremism," Dr. Dmello remarks.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-terrorist-relocation-due-to-climate-change">Terrorist relocation due to climate change</h2>



<p>The intensity of climate change contributed to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/new-forensic-intelligence-tool-will-help-combat-terrorism/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">terrorists</a> relocating to new areas. Additionally, this shift in terrorist activity also followed a seasonal pattern.</p>



<p>Dr. Dmello stresses the broader implications of this correlation: "This research shows that stopping the damaging effects of climate change is not just an environmental issue but one that is directly tied to&nbsp;national security&nbsp;and defense."</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-global-security-and-social-equity">Global security and social equity</h2>



<p>This research is crucial for grasping the complex factors like climate change driving terrorist activity. It also plays a key role in shaping global security strategies, including those of Australia.</p>



<p>Despite experiencing lower levels of terrorism compared to India, Australia faces its challenges with radicalization. </p>



<p>Dr. Dmello points out, "Addressing radicalization in Australia necessitates tackling broader societal issues such as homelessness, food and water security, and social equity to create a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/fewer-number-of-outdoor-days-in-our-lives-as-global-climate-continues-to-warm/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">safer environment</a>."</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-linking-climate-change-and-terrorism">Linking climate change and terrorism</h2>



<p>Recently joining the University of Adelaide in early 2024, Dr. Dmello has achieved significant milestones. He has co-edited a book on security in the Arctic and plans to delve deeper into how resource inequities affect radicalization.</p>



<p>"My recent projects aim to dissect the factors influencing radicalization in Australia, aiming to foster collaboration with the government and law enforcement to deter extremist ideologies," he shares. This statement signals his commitment to expanding this vital research on a global scale.</p>



<p>Dr. Dmello's work illuminates the complex link between climate change and terrorist activity. It advocates for a comprehensive approach to national security, one that encompasses environmental stewardship, social equity, and international cooperation.</p>



<p>Consequently, this is a call to action for governments worldwide to rethink their strategies for the dual challenges of climate change and terrorism. It highlights the importance of integrated approaches to secure a safer future for everyone.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-implications-of-climate-change-and-terrorism-link">Implications of climate change and terrorism link</h2>



<p>The study led by Dr. Dmello on the interconnection between climate change and terrorist activity offers several crucial implications:</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-national-security-planning">National security planning</h3>



<p>It highlights the need for security strategies to incorporate climate change as a significant factor influencing terrorism, suggesting that traditional <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/developed-countries-counterterrorism-efforts/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">counter-terrorism</a> approaches might need reevaluation and adaptation.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-policy-development">Policy development</h3>



<p>The findings advocate for policies that address both climate change and terrorism together, rather than in isolation, emphasizing integrated approaches that can tackle the root causes of both issues.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-international-cooperation">International cooperation</h3>



<p>The global nature of climate change and its impact on terrorism underline the importance of international collaboration. Countries can share intelligence, strategies, and technologies to combat these intertwined challenges effectively.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-environmental-policies">Environmental policies</h3>



<p>The research underscores the role of environmental stewardship in preventing radicalization and terrorism. This could lead to increased investment in sustainable development, renewable energy, and climate <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/earths-global-temperature-exceeded-2c-for-the-first-time/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">resilience efforts</a>.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-public-awareness-and-education">Public awareness and education</h3>



<p>By establishing a link between climate change and terrorist activity, the study calls for increased public awareness and education. Understanding these connections can drive public support for policies that address both environmental protection and security.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-research-and-innovation">Research and innovation</h3>



<p>The implications for future research are significant, encouraging further investigation into how climate-related factors influence other forms of conflict and security issues. It also opens avenues for developing new technologies and methodologies to predict and mitigate the impacts of climate change on global security.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-societal-well-being">Societal well-being</h3>



<p>Addressing the societal issues that lead to radicalization, such as homelessness, food and water security, and social equity, as mentioned by Dr. Dmello, is crucial. This holistic approach can lead to a more stable and peaceful society by tackling the underlying issues that fuel discontent and extremism.</p>



<p>Overall, the study calls for a rethinking of how societies view and deal with the challenges of climate change and terrorism, advocating for integrated solutions that address the environmental, social, and political dimensions of these global issues.</p>



<p>The full study was published in the journal <em><a href="https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/19361610.2024.2322238" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Applied Security Research</a></em>.</p>



<p>-----</p>



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Terrorists are relocating rapidly due to climate change

Climate change is casting a long shadow over global security,...

Pfas,Contamination,Of,Drinking,Water,-,Alertness,About,Dangerous,Pfas

<p>"Forever chemicals", or PFAS, are the subject of a pivotal study by Stockholm University's Department of Environmental Science. This research uncovers a neglected route through which PFAS cycle back to land from the ocean.</p>



<p>It challenges the common belief, showing PFAS do not simply dilute in the ocean but follow a cyclical journey.</p>



<p>The study reveals that ocean waves launch these <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/creators-of-forever-chemicals-covered-up-the-toxic-dangers-for-decades/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">toxic substances</a> into the air, where they then settle back onto land, posing potential risks to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/toxic-pfas-forever-chemicals-released-by-dupont-and-chemours-caused-significant-harm/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">human health</a> and the environment.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-pfas-a-persistent-threat">PFAS: a persistent threat</h2>



<p>PFAS, short for Per- and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/skiers-are-spreading-pfas-forever-chemicals-around-the-worlds-mountains/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Polyfluoroalkyl Substances</a>, represent a vast group of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/not-so-green-hidden-chemicals-found-in-paper-straws/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">synthetic chemicals</a>.</p>



<p>Due to their ability to resist heat, oil, stains, grease, and water, PFAS are prevalent in many products. This includes non-stick cookware, water-repellent clothing, stain-resistant fabrics and carpets, certain firefighting foams, and various grease-, water-, and oil-resistant items.</p>



<p>However, PFAS have earned the moniker "forever chemicals" for their durability and tendency to persist in the environment and accumulate over time.</p>



<p>Such persistence, evident in both the environment and living organisms, has sparked health concerns. Specifically, potential risks associated with PFAS exposure include an increased likelihood of cancer, hormone disruption, and adverse effects on the immune system.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-pfas-research-at-ocean">PFAS research at ocean</h2>



<p>The research team undertook extensive field experiments across the Atlantic Ocean. This team included Bo Sha, a post-doctoral researcher, and Jana Johansson, a former researcher at the Department who is now at <a href="https://liu.se/en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Linköping University</a>.</p>



<p>Their innovative approach featured a custom-built sea spray simulator aboard a research vessel. Over two months, they conducted multiple experiments using this setup.</p>



<p>Subsequently, the startling results showed that air particle concentrations of PFAS exceeded those in seawater by over 100,000 times, highlighting ocean spray's efficiency in reintroducing these chemicals into the atmosphere.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-pfas-boomerang-effect-on-land-and-ocean">PFAS 'boomerang effect on land and ocean</h2>



<p>Ian Cousins, a professor at the <a href="https://www.su.se/department-of-environmental-science/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Department of Environmental Science</a> and a co-author of the study, emphasized the significance of their findings.</p>



<p>"Contrary to the common belief that <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/banning-forever-chemicals-may-threaten-us-national-security/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">PFAS</a> are merely washed away from the land into the ocean, our research shows that there's a 'boomerang effect.' Some of these chemicals are re-emitted into the air, transported over long distances, and then deposited back onto land," Cousins explained. </p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-concerning-discovery">A concerning discovery</h2>



<p>Bo Sha noted the dual nature of their research. She states, "Our findings, while scientifically impactful, are also disconcerting."</p>



<p>Furthermore, the study not only contributes to the scientific understanding of PFAS distribution. In essence, this also sparks concern among scientists, regulators, and the general public, given the widespread presence and persistence of these chemicals.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-global-implications-of-pfas-ocean-pollution">Global implications of PFAS ocean pollution</h2>



<p>Matthew Salter, a co-author and researcher at the Department of Environmental Science, highlighted supporting evidence from Denmark. There, scientists pinpoint the sea along the west coast as a primary PFAS source.</p>



<p>Salter remarked, "This aligns with our expectations, as our study predicts that coastal regions are the most impacted." He underlined the global significance of their findings.</p>



<p>Thus, Stockholm University's study represents a critical advancement in understanding <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/pfas-crisis-humans-are-early-warning-system-for-wildlife-impacts/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">PFAS pollution</a> in the ocean. It illuminates the complex and unforeseen pathways these chemicals navigate in our environment.</p>



<p>The findings stress the immediate necessity for more research, regulatory action, and mitigation efforts to combat the widespread and enduring threat of PFAS. This is particularly vital for coastal areas, where their effects are most acute.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-minimizing-pfas-pollution-in-oceans-and-beyond">Minimizing PFAS pollution in oceans and beyond</h2>



<p>Reducing PFAS in the environment and minimizing exposure is critical due to their persistence and potential health risks. Here are <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/new-invention-turns-toxic-forever-chemicals-pfas-into-harmless-molecules/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">strategies</a> to reduce PFAS:</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">At the regulatory level</h3>



<ol>
<li><strong>Stricter regulations</strong>: Governments can implement tighter controls on the production, use, and disposal of PFAS-containing products.<br></li>



<li><strong>Clean-up efforts</strong>: Invest in cleaning up contaminated sites, including water bodies and land areas, using advanced remediation technologies.<br></li>



<li><strong>Monitoring and research</strong>: Enhance monitoring of PFAS in the environment and fund research into safer alternatives and remediation methods.</li>
</ol>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">In industry</h3>



<ol>
<li><strong>Developing alternatives</strong>: Industries should research and adopt PFAS-free alternatives for products and processes.<br></li>



<li><strong>Better manufacturing practices</strong>: Implementing practices that reduce PFAS emissions and contamination during production.<br></li>



<li><strong>Product stewardship</strong>: Encouraging producers to take responsibility for the entire lifecycle of their products to ensure they minimize environmental impact.</li>
</ol>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">At the consumer level</h3>



<ol>
<li><strong>Informed purchasing</strong>: Consumers can choose products free of PFAS, such as non-stick cookware alternatives and PFAS-free clothing.<br></li>



<li><strong>Reducing use of disposable products</strong>: Many disposable products, like food packaging, contain PFAS. Opting for reusable items can reduce demand.<br></li>



<li><strong>Community action</strong>: Engaging in community efforts to pressure local governments and industries to adopt PFAS-free practices and policies.</li>
</ol>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Waste management</h3>



<ol>
<li><strong>Proper disposal</strong>: Ensuring that products containing PFAS are disposed of properly to prevent leaching into the ocean and other environments.<br></li>



<li><strong>Recycling innovations</strong>: Developing recycling methods that can safely break down PFAS materials without releasing them into the environment.</li>
</ol>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Lifestyle Changes</h3>



<ol>
<li><strong>Water filtratio</strong>n: Using water filters certified to reduce PFAS levels can minimize exposure through drinking water.<br></li>



<li><strong>Home gardening practices</strong>: Avoiding PFAS-containing pesticides and soil treatments in home gardens.</li>
</ol>



<p>Reducing PFAS requires concerted efforts across all levels of society, from individual actions to global regulatory frameworks. </p>



<p>By making informed choices and advocating for change, we can collectively reduce the presence of these persistent chemicals in our environment.</p>



<p>The full study was published in the journal <em><a href="https://www.science.org/doi/10.1126/sciadv.adl1026" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Science Advances</a></em>.</p>



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Ocean waves send harmful PFAS forever chemicals back to land

"Forever chemicals", or PFAS, are the subject of a pivotal...

<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"><strong>Invisible threat in urban air</strong></h2>



<p>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.</p>



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



<p>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.</p>



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



<p>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.</p>



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



<p>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.</p>



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



<p>These findings, published in <em><a href="https://www.neurology.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Neurology</a></em>, 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.</p>



<p>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.</p>



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Traffic fumes may trigger Alzheimer's

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

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



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



<p>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.</p>



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



<p>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.</p>



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



<p>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.</p>



<p>"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.</p>



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



<p>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.</p>



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



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

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

<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=K0DuSr87SHY
</div><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">57 million-year ice age mystery solved by Australian scientists.</figcaption></figure>



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



<p>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.</p>



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



<p>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.</p>



<p>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."</p>



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



<p>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.</p>



<p>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.</p>



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



<p>Published in the journal <em><a href="https://pubs.geoscienceworld.org/geology" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Geology</a></em>, 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.</p>



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<p>—–</p>

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>



<p>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.</p>



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



<p>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.</p>



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



<p>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.</p>



<p>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.</p>



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



<p>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.</p>



<p>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.</p>



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



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Greenland's ground rises while coasts worldwide face higher seas

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

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



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



<p>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.</p>



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



<p>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.</p>



<p>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.</p>



<p>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.</p>



<p>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.</p>



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



<p>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.</p>



<p>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.</p>



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



<p>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.</p>



<p>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.</p>



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



<p>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.</p>



<p>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.</p>



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



<p>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.</p>



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



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



<p>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.</p>



<p>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%.</p>



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



<p>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.</p>



<p>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.</p>



<p>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.</p>



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



<p>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>.</p>



<p id="block-9bd989d6-2fd3-4580-957f-6cacce134f08">-----</p>



<p id="block-eff5dea3-a9bb-40b5-a923-e5a9978bc0e2">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.</p>



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<p id="block-1f9a227a-ec37-4140-81b8-ffa4a7cc6689">-----</p>



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



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

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>



<p>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.</p>



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



<p>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.</p>



<p>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.</p>



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



<p>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.</p>



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



<p>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.</p>



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



<p>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.</p>



<p>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"><em>Nature Communications</em></a>.</p>



<p>-----</p>



<p>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.</p>



<p>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.</p>



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Revolutionizing agriculture through microbiome engineering

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

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



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



<p>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?</p>



<p>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.</p>



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



<p>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.</p>



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



<p>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.</p>



<p>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.</p>



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



<p>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.</p>



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



<p>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.</p>



<p>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.</p>



<p>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.</p>



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



<p>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.</p>



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



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



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



<p>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.</p>



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



<p>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.</p>



<p>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.</p>



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



<p>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.</p>



<p>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.</p>



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



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



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



<p>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.</p>



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



<p>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.</p>



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



<p>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.</p>



<p>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.</p>



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



<p>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.</p>



<p>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.</p>



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



<p>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.</p>



<p>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.</p>



<p>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.</p>



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



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



<p><strong>Sources:</strong> <em>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.</em></p>



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



<p><strong>1. Is acid rain completely gone?</strong> 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.</p>



<p><strong>2. How long did solving take?</strong> 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.</p>



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



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



<p><strong>5. Could acid rain return?</strong> 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.</p>



<p><strong>6. Can you recommend any teaching tools on the subject of "acid rain"?</strong> 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></p>



<p>-----</p>



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The environmental problem we actually solved

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

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

<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>



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



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



<p>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. </p>



<p>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. </p>



<p>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.</p>



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



<p>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.</p>



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



<p>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.</p>



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



<p>-----</p>



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Wildlife tunnels save millions of amphibians

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

<p>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. </p>



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



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



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



<p>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. </p>



<p>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).</p>



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



<p>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.</p>



<p>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.</p>



<p>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>.</p>

Is chocolate the next nutritional powerhouse?

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

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<p>Today’s <strong>Video of the Day</strong> 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.</p>



<p>“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. </p>



<p>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.</p>



<p>“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;</p>



<p>“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.”</p>



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



<p>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.</p>



<p><em>Video Credit: Amanda Nguyen/University of Illinois</em></p>



<p><em>-</em><em>--</em></p>



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



<p>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.</p>

Designing crops that can beat the heat

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

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<p>Today's <strong>Video of the Day</strong> 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. </p>



<p>"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."</p>



<p>"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.</p>



<p>"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.”</p>



<p><em>Video Credit: NASA Goddard&nbsp;</em></p>



<p><em>-</em><em>--</em></p>



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



<p>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.</p>

Remote sensing will revolutionize the way we monitor trees

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

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



<p>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."</p>



<p>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;</p>



<p>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. </p>



<p>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.</p>



<p><em>Video Credit: ESA&nbsp;&nbsp;</em></p>



<p><em>-</em><em>--</em></p>



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



<p>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.</p>

Lesotho: Africa's "Kingdom in the Sky"

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<p>Today's <strong>Video of the Day</strong> 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;</p>



<p>"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.</p>



<p>"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;</p>



<p>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.</p>



<p><em>Video Credit: NASA Goddard</em></p>



<p><em>-</em><em>--</em></p>



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



<p>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.</p>

Wetlands are a major source of methane emissions

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

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<p>Today’s <strong>Video of the Day</strong> 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;</p>



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



<p>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.</p>



<p>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.</p>



<p>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.</p>



<p>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.</p>



<p>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. </p>



<p>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.</p>



<p><em>Video Credit: NASA Earth Observatory/&nbsp; NASA’s Scientific Visualization Studio</em></p>



<p><em>-</em><em>--</em></p>



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



<p>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.</p>

The rapid retreat of the Columbia Glacier

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

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



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



<p>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;</p>



<p>"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.</p>



<p><em>Video/ Image Credit: NASA Goddard</em></p>



<p><em>-</em><em>--</em></p>



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



<p>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.</p>

2022 illustrated the consequences of a warming climate

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

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<p>Satellites reveal how Earth's systems are interconnected Today’s <strong>Video of the Day</strong> 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;</p>



<p>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.</p>



<p>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;</p>



<p>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. </p>



<p><em>Video Credit: NASA Goddard&nbsp;</em></p>



<p><em>-</em><em>--</em></p>



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



<p>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.</p>

Satellites reveal how Earth's systems are interconnected

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

<p>Today’s <strong>Video of the Day</strong> 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.</p>



<p>“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.”</p>



<p>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.</p>



<p>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.</p>



<p>“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.</p>



<p><em>Video Credit: University of Miami Rosenstiel School of Marine and Atmospheric Science</em></p>



<p><em>-</em><em>--</em></p>



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



<p>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.</p>

Tiger sharks are shifting poleward as temperatures rise

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

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<p>Today’s <strong>Video of the Day</strong> 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.</p>



<p>"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.</p>



<p>"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."</p>



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



<p>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.</p>



<p>"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."</p>



<p><em>Video Credit: ESA&nbsp;</em></p>



<p><em>-</em><em>--</em></p>



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



<p>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.</p>

Melt ponds on the Greenland Ice Sheet

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

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<p>Today’s <strong>Video of the Day</strong> 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.</p>



<p>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.</p>



<p>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.</p>



<p>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.</p>



<p><em>Video Credit: ESA</em></p>



<p><em>-</em><em>--</em></p>



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



<p>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.</p>

Tracking changes in Earth's water cycle

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

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<p>Today's <strong>Video of the Day</strong> 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. </p>



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



<p>"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.</p>



<p>"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."</p>



<p>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;</p>



<p>"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.</p>



<p>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.</p>



<p>"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.</p>



<p>"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."</p>



<p><em>Video Credit: NASA Goddard&nbsp;</em></p>



<p><em>-</em><em>--</em></p>



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



<p>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.</p>

Mysterious "spoke season" captured on Saturn

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

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