Wildfires in the western U.S. have become a growing crisis. They’re lasting longer, burning hotter, and spreading into areas that rarely burned in the past. 



But another danger is rising, beyond heatwaves and droughts. Lightning - sudden, fierce, and incredibly powerful - is becoming one of the biggest wildfire risks.



In the coming decades, scientists warn that lightning will become an increasingly dominant spark for <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/climate-change-is-making-wildfire-smoke-more-deadly/">wildfires</a>, adding to the already mounting risks across the West.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-lightning-is-fueling-more-wildfires">Lightning is fueling more wildfires</h2>



Wildfires need a few things to get going: dry fuel, hot temperatures, low humidity, and a spark. <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/lightning-is-changing-the-atmosphere-in-surprising-ways/">Lightning</a> is one of the most powerful natural igniters.



In the western U.S., lightning already causes more than two-thirds of the area burned by wildfires. And now, new research shows that number is going to rise sharply due to climate change. 



Warmer air holds more moisture, which means more unstable weather patterns. Those patterns, in turn, set the stage for more lightning.



A recent study has revealed that virtually all of the western U.S. - 98 percent of the region - will have more days with a greater likelihood of lightning-ignited wildfires starting as early as the 2030s. 



For regions already accustomed to such fires, such as Oregon, Idaho, and Montana, the risk is even greater. As early as 2060, those states may have as many as 12 additional lightning-filled days per summer.



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



Traditional <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/climate-models-underestimate-sea-ice-melt-and-global-warming/">climate models</a> don’t really track lightning. That’s why a team of researchers led by Dmitri Kalashnikov built their own system to fill in the gaps.



“The first step was to project lightning,” said Kalashnikov, a research scientist at the <a href="https://www.ucmerced.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of California Merced</a>. “The typical climate models don’t directly simulate lightning. It’s too small a process.”



The researchers applied machine learning to forecast where lightning would hit based on variables that we can quantify - such as temperature, humidity, and the level of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/moisture-in-the-atmosphere-causes-extreme-weather-to-last-longer/">moisture in the air</a>. 



The team merged those results with the Fire Weather Index (FWI), a mechanism that was developed back in 1968 to monitor how probable wildfire initiation and spread is from local weather.



The result is a forecast model tailored to the western U.S., designed to project conditions from 2030 to 2060 - decades earlier than most studies, which typically look only to the end of the century.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-more-lightning-in-the-northwest">More lightning in the Northwest</h2>



The northwestern states of Idaho, Oregon, and Montana are projected to experience the greatest growth in lightning days. But strangely, they may not experience the most rapid expansion in wildfires. 



Although lightning will grow, the conditions favoring fires (such as extreme heat or dryness) are not expected to worsen as quickly in the Northwest compared to other regions.



That doesn’t mean northwestern states are off the hook. Cloud-to-ground lightning, the kind that hits trees or grass directly, is still expected to rise significantly in those areas.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-less-lightning-greater-wildfire-risk">Less lightning, greater wildfire risk</h2>



In contrast, the Southwest - including Colorado, Wyoming, Arizona, and New Mexico - won’t see as much of a jump in lightning strikes. But the fire risk will still climb. 



This is because even a small spark becomes a big threat when the land is extra dry, the heat is intense, and there’s little rain to cool things off.



The researchers found that these southern states are likely to experience the biggest increases in wildfires caused by lightning, despite the smaller bump in lightning activity. That’s because climate change is pushing up the number of fire-prone days overall.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-dry-and-wet-lightning">Dry and wet lightning</h2>



Kalashnikov said the next steps could involve separating the kinds of lightning events. “You can’t help but wonder what the future will look like, especially if you dig in and you realize that there’s actually a lot that we don’t understand,” he said.



One key factor will be figuring out how to distinguish between "dry lightning" and "wet lightning." Dry lightning happens without much rain, making it a fire hazard. 



Wet lightning brings <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/heavy-rainfall-poses-extreme-risks-in-the-western-us/">heavy rain</a>, which can reduce fire risk but increase flood danger. Understanding that difference could help emergency services respond more precisely to fire threats.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-wildfire-risks-are-rising-fast">Wildfire risks are rising fast</h2>



As climate patterns shift, the West isn’t just getting warmer and drier - it’s getting stormier in a dangerous way. Lightning is expected to spark more fires, and fires are expected to find more dry fuel waiting. It’s a feedback loop that could reshape fire seasons in the U.S.



This isn’t about something that might happen a hundred years from now. The changes are coming within the next few decades - some may already be happening. 



And for the people living in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/double-hazard-wildfire-zones-identified-in-the-american-west/">high-risk areas</a>, that means more heat, more smoke, and a greater need for preparation.



The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://agupubs.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1029/2025EF006108" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Earth's Future</a>.



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Lightning will ignite even more wildfires as the climate heats up

Wildfires in the western U.S. have become a growing crisis. They’re lasting longer, burning hotter, and spreading into areas that rarely burned in the past. But another danger is rising, beyond heatwaves and droughts. Lightning - sudden, fierce, and incredibly powerful - is becoming one of the biggest wildfire risks. In the coming decades, scientists warn that lightning will become an increasingly dominant spark for wildfires, adding to the already mounting risks across the West. Lightning is fueling more wildfires Wildfires need a few things to get...

Researchers have achieved a pivotal breakthrough in understanding the process of aerosol formation in Earth's <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/earths-atmosphere-is-expanding-due-to-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">lower atmosphere</a>, offering insights into air quality, climate, and health impacts. 



Specifically focusing on the troposphere, which contains 85% of our atmosphere, this research addresses the crucial formation and effects of secondary organic aerosols (SOAs). Published in Nature Geosciences, their study exposes key mechanisms of SOA formation, substantially enhancing our understanding of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/earths-ancient-breath-study-links-atmospheric-oxygen-and-mantle-chemistry/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">atmospheric chemistry</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-impact-of-secondary-organic-aerosols-soas">Impact of secondary organic aerosols (SOAs)</h2>



The focus of their study, Criegee intermediates, are compounds suspected to be at the heart of SOA formation through a process known as oligomerization. Until now, the direct chemical signatures of this process had not been identified in real-world conditions. 



The team's field measurements in the Amazon rainforest -- a critical region for SOA study -- provided undeniable evidence of reactions consistent with a specific Criegee intermediate compound, shedding light on the complex chemistry at play in our atmosphere.



Carl Percival from NASA’s <a href="https://www.jpl.nasa.gov/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Jet Propulsion Laboratory</a> emphasized the significance of their findings, stating, “First, we discovered that CI chemistry may play a bigger role in altering the composition of the troposphere than current atmospheric models account for -- probably by an order of magnitude.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-unlocking-the-secrets-of-aerosol-formation">Unlocking the secrets of aerosol formation</h2>



Rebecca L. Caravan, an assistant chemist at <a href="https://www.anl.gov/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Argonne</a> and the paper's first author, highlighted the direct correlation between their field observations, laboratory characterizations, and theoretical determinations.



“This discovery is extremely significant because we were able to make direct connections between what we actually saw in the field, what we anticipated was happening with oligomerization of CIs and what we were able to characterize in the lab and determine theoretically,” explained Caravan.



This integrated approach not only allowed for a deeper understanding of CI reactions but also showcased the collaborative effort across laboratories to push the boundaries of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/scientists-uncover-new-way-that-earth-cleans-its-atmosphere/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">atmospheric science</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-advanced-methodologies-and-findings">Advanced methodologies and findings</h2>



Craig A. Taatjes, a combustion chemist at Sandia, elaborated on the comprehensive methods employed in their research. From advanced field measurements to cutting-edge theoretical kinetics, the team utilized an array of tools to dissect the complex reactions of Criegee intermediates. 



"We used the most advanced theoretical kinetics to predict reactions we can’t measure directly. And we took advantage of the most advanced global chemistry modeling to assess the effects we would expect oligomerization to have in the troposphere based on those kinetics,” Taatjes elaborated.



This multifaceted strategy yielded critical insights, notably that the impact of CI chemistry on the troposphere's composition might be significantly underestimated by current models.



Despite the remarkable progress, the findings also suggest that our understanding of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/african-dust-and-sea-spray-may-help-tackle-atmospheric-methane/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">tropospheric chemistry</a> remains incomplete. The observed oligomerization signatures in the field far exceeded those predicted by updated models, hinting at either a more substantial role for CI chemistry or the presence of other unidentified chemical mechanisms.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-much-more-to-learn-about-atmospheric-aerosol-formation">Much more to learn about atmospheric aerosol formation</h2>



“We still have a lot of work to do to fully define the role of CI reactions in the troposphere,” concluded Caravan. “But these findings significantly expand our understanding of one potentially significant pathway for SOA formation in the most important layer of the earth’s atmosphere.”



In summary, this research marks a significant milestone in our understanding of atmospheric chemistry, particularly in the study of secondary organic aerosols (SOAs) formation and the pivotal role of Criegee intermediates (CIs) in their formation. 



By employing advanced detection methods and comprehensive field studies in the Amazon rainforest, the team has not only uncovered evidence that challenges and surpasses current atmospheric models but also set a new course for future research. 



Their findings underscore the complexity of the troposphere's chemistry and highlight the urgent need for further exploration to fully grasp the impact of these processes on our planet's climate, air quality, and human health.



The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41561-023-01361-6">Nature Geoscience</a>.



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Aerosol formation in Earth's atmosphere is a complicated process

Researchers have achieved a pivotal breakthrough in understanding the process...

Many of the animals we love, from playful penguins to majestic <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/elephants-are-forest-gardeners-that-help-reduce-global-warming/">elephants</a>, could disappear because of climate change. It's not something just for scientists to worry about -- it's a real threat. 



A new study by <a href="https://www.ox.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Oxford University</a> examined fossils of sea creatures to identify which animals are most at risk of extinction as the Earth's climate keeps changing.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-animal-extinction-patterns-from-the-fossil-record">Animal extinction patterns from the fossil record</h2>



The research team analyzed fossil records spanning a staggering 485 million years. They focused on creatures that lived in the ocean with hard shells, like <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/sea-urchins-can-tolerate-hot-acidic-ocean-water/">sea urchins</a> and clams.&nbsp;



The experts looked at over a quarter of a million fossils from more than 9,200 different types of these creatures. They wanted to find out what makes some species more likely to survive than others.&nbsp;



The researchers were interested in factors that hadn't been considered before, like what temperature the creatures preferred to live in.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-species-in-extreme-habitats-are-most-vulnerable-nbsp">Species in extreme habitats are most vulnerable&nbsp;</h2>



The results showed that the bigger the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/extreme-weather-can-flip-forests-from-carbon-sinks-to-carbon-sources/">temperature fluctuations</a>, the more danger species were in. This was especially true if the temperature changed more than 44.6°F (7°C) over a long period. The study suggests that rapid climate change disrupts the balance of nature, making it harder for species to survive.



The experts also found that animals living in very hot or cold places, like the poles, are in more danger from climate change. These areas experience bigger climate swings, making it even harder for species that are already used to harsh conditions.&nbsp;



As climate change gets worse, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/gulls-are-shifting-their-habitats-to-urban-areas/">extreme habitats</a> change quickly, which is even more dangerous for the species that live there.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-important-predictors-of-animal-extinction-nbsp">Important predictors of animal extinction&nbsp;</h2>



“Our study revealed that geographic range was the strongest predictor of extinction risk for marine invertebrates, but that the magnitude of climate change is also an important predictor of extinction, which has implications for biodiversity today in the face of climate change,” explained lead author Cooper Malanoski from Department of Earth Sciences at the University of Oxford.



Animals that can only survive in a very specific temperature range face the greatest risk of extinction. The study revealed that species in areas where the temperature only changed by 59°F (15°C) or less were much more likely to die out.&nbsp;



This shows how dangerous climate change is for species that need a very specific environment to survive. Even small changes in temperature can lead to their population shrinking or them dying out completely.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-small-animals-face-higher-extinction-risk">Small animals face higher extinction risk</h2>



The size of an animal can affect its chances of surviving and reproducing. The researchers concluded that smaller animals are more likely to die out entirely. This isn't new - scientists have known for a while that smaller creatures have a harder time dealing with changes in their environment.



There are a few reasons for this. First, small animals burn energy quickly compared to their size. They need more food to survive, so any changes that make food harder to find hurt them more.&nbsp;&nbsp;



Also, small animals tend to live for a shorter time and have more babies quickly. While this can help their population grow fast, it can also make them more vulnerable to problems that reduce their numbers.



Another issue is that small animals often can't travel far. This makes it hard for them to find new homes if their current one gets messed up, or to escape from danger. If their habitat becomes fragmented, or they get separated from each other, they're more likely to die out completely.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-conservation-in-a-changing-climate">Conservation in a changing climate</h2>



The study provides valuable insights for protecting <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/fireworks-can-have-long-lasting-impacts-on-wildlife/">wildlife</a> in a warming world. Knowing which creatures are most at risk is crucial for planning conservation efforts as climate change worsens.&nbsp;



By pinpointing the most vulnerable species, conservationists can focus their efforts and get the most out of limited resources, increasing the chances of preserving biodiversity despite environmental challenges.



The study emphasizes the importance of specific actions to lessen climate change's harm on wildlife. This might involve restoring habitats, reintroducing species to areas they once lived in, or creating protected zones for safety.&nbsp;



In some cases, more drastic measures may be needed, such as helping species move to new homes better suited to the changing climate.



Finally, the research highlights the need for collaboration between scientists, government officials, and conservation groups. By combining their expertise, they can develop creative solutions and implement evidence-based conservation plans that consider the specific needs of different species and ecosystems.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.science.org/doi/10.1126/science.adj5763" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Science</a>.



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Animal extinction risk is heavily influenced by climate change

Many of the animals we love, from playful penguins to...

The early arrival of daffodils, diminishing snow in ski resorts, and sunbathing opportunities in the northern hemisphere hinted at an unusual climatic trend, which has now been confirmed by the European Union's climate monitoring service. This year’s February has been officially recorded as the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/july-was-earths-hottest-month-in-120000-years/">hottest</a> ever, surpassing previous records with a global average temperature of 56.3°F (13.54°C).&nbsp;



This surpasses the former record-holder, February 2016, by 0.21°F (0.12°C) and stands 1.45°F (0.81°C) above the global average for this month over the 1991-2020 period. Scientists attribute this worrying trend directly to the effects of greenhouse gas <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/global-co2-emissions-expected-to-reach-a-new-high-in-2023/">emissions</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-february-joins-a-long-streak-of-records">February joins a long streak of records</h2>



The <a href="https://climate.copernicus.eu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Copernicus Climate Change Service</a> (C3S), a part of the European Commission dedicated to climate monitoring, has detailed these findings. They base their conclusions on data gathered from a diverse array of sources, including weather stations, balloons, and satellites, offering a comprehensive view of the planet's average air temperature over time. 



"February joins the long streak of records of the last few months," said C3S director Carlo Buontempo. “As remarkable as this might appear, it is not really surprising as the continuous warming of the climate system inevitably leads to new temperature extremes."&nbsp;



"The climate responds to the actual concentrations of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/greenhouse-gas-emissions-reach-another-all-time-high/">greenhouse gases</a> in the atmosphere so, unless we manage to stabilize those, we will inevitably face new global temperature records and their consequences.”



This February's record-setting warmth follows a pattern, being the ninth consecutive month to set a new record for its respective time of year. It was notably 3.18°F (1.77°C) warmer than the average for February during the pre-industrial period of 1850-1900.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-paris-agreement-commitments-to-limit-warming-nbsp">Paris Agreement commitments to limit warming&nbsp;</h2>



Alarmingly, for several days in early February, global temperatures soared to levels 3.6°F (2°C) above those pre-industrial averages, challenging global commitments made under the Paris Agreement to limit warming.



However, these records do not suggest a breach of the Paris Agreement thresholds, which are based on long-term averages rather than single monthly records.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-february-record-for-the-highest-sea-surface-temperature">February record for the highest sea surface temperature</h2>



In Europe alone, temperatures in February were significantly higher than historical averages, mirroring similar anomalies across other parts of the world including Siberia, North and South America, Africa, and Australia.



Beyond air temperatures, C3S also monitors sea surface temperatures, a key indicator of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/formal-agreement-needed-to-define-the-current-level-of-global-warming/">global warming</a>. February saw the highest global sea surface temperature on record for any month, underscoring the comprehensive nature of current climate change trends. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-greenhouse-gas-emissions-nbsp">Greenhouse gas emissions&nbsp;</h2>



With these ongoing changes, it's possible that 2024 could see even more temperature records broken, continuing the alarming trend observed in 2023, which was marked by unprecedented global warmth from June onward, attributed largely to greenhouse gas emissions.



Atmospheric levels of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/global-carbon-dioxide-emissions-hit-a-record-high-in-2023/">carbon dioxide</a> and methane, the most critical greenhouse gases, reached new highs in 2023. This contributed to several months, including September, November, December, and notably July - the hottest month on record - setting new temperature benchmarks.&nbsp;



"2023 was an exceptional year with climate records tumbling like dominoes. Temperatures during 2023 likely exceed those of any period in at least the last 100,000 years,” concluded Samantha Burgess, deputy director of C3S.&nbsp;



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Early spring follows the hottest February on record

The early arrival of daffodils, diminishing snow in ski resorts,...

Scientists have introduced an innovative method for quantifying the value and long-term benefits of ecosystem biodiversity and nature conservation. A new study suggests that this new approach could transform how governments approach the economic assessment of public infrastructure projects. 



This new approach seeks to quantify the loss of animal and plant species, along with ecosystem services-- such as air and water filtration, crop pollination, and recreational value -- in monetary terms. Its aim is to bring the importance of biodiversity loss and nature conservation to the forefront of political decision-making.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-rethinking-biodiversity-valuation">Rethinking biodiversity valuation</h2>



Traditionally, the methods used to calculate the value of ecosystem services have been criticized for their limitations. The team's newly proposed method addresses these concerns by accounting for the expected increase in nature's monetary value over time due to rising human income. Simultaneously, it factors in biodiversity decline, which renders it a more scarce resource.



Professor Moritz Drupp of the <a href="https://www.uni-hamburg.de/en.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Hamburg</a>, the study's lead author and a renowned expert in Sustainability Economics, explains, "Our study equips governments with a formula to estimate the future values of scarce ecosystem services, enhancing decision-making processes." 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-valuing-ecosystems-over-time">Valuing ecosystems over time</h2>



This approach acknowledges two pivotal factors. Firstly, global income and prosperity are anticipated to grow by an estimated 2% per year after inflation adjustments, increasing the willingness to pay for nature conservation. Secondly, as ecosystem services become rarer, their value surges -- a fundamental economic principle that also applies to the conservation sector.



“On the other hand, the services provided by ecosystems will become more valuable the scarcer they become”, said Professor Drupp. 



“The fact that scarce goods become more expensive is a fundamental principle in economics, and it also applies here. And in view of current developments, unfortunately, we must expect the loss of biodiversity to continue," Drupp explained.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-economic-principles-behind-the-new-approach">Economic principles behind the new approach</h2>



The researchers advocate for a significant upward revision of the current monetary values assigned to ecosystem services in cost-benefit analyses. 



They propose an increase by more than 130% when considering income rise alone, and over 180% when also factoring in the impact on endangered species listed on the <a href="https://www.iucnredlist.org/assessment/red-list-index" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Red List Index</a>. This recalibration could greatly increase the likelihood of conservation projects passing cost-benefit evaluations.



The study's insights are further enriched by contributions from three UK-based researchers: Professor Mark Freeman (<a href="https://www.york.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of York</a>), Dr. Frank Venmans (<a href="https://www.lse.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">LSE</a>), and Professor Ben Groom (<a href="https://www.exeter.ac.uk/us-2/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Exeter</a>). 



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



“The monetary values for the environment that are currently used by policy makers in the appraisal of public investments and regulatory change mean that nature becomes relatively less valuable over time compared to other goods and services,” said Professor Groom.



“Our work shows this is wrong.&nbsp;We propose an uplift in the values of ecosystems over time. This proposal could easily be deployed in the Treasury’s analysis that will underpin future Budget statements.”&nbsp;



Dr. Venmans brings attention to specific cases like coral reefs, which are expected to decline due to climate change, thereby increasing the value of the remaining reefs, especially as household incomes rise. "This becomes crucial when evaluating the preservation of coral reefs with long-lasting impacts," he adds.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-impact-of-placing-a-monetary-value-on-ecosystems">Impact of placing a monetary value on ecosystems</h2>



Echoing the significance of this work, Professor Freeman emphasizes the need for consistent evaluation of ecosystem protection alongside other public project.



“The government is under considerable pressure from many sides for additional public investment. Ensuring that the protection of ecosystems is appraised in a way that is consistent with other public projects, including HS2 and other infrastructure spending, is critical. This is what our work aims to achieve," Freeman expounded.



In summary, this compelling study challenges the traditional methods of valuing biodiversity and ecosystem services and offers a solution that could revolutionize environmental policy and conservation efforts worldwide. 



By introducing a formula that accounts for the rising value of nature in tandem with human income and the scarcity of ecosystem services, the researchers provide governments and policymakers with a powerful tool to make informed decisions that reflect the true worth of our natural world. 



This approach underscores the importance of preserving biodiversity for future generations while offering a path towards a more sustainable and economically inclusive approach to managing our planet's precious resources.



The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://www.science.org/doi/10.1126/science.adk2086" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Science</a>.



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Placing a monetary value on nature conservation and ecosystems

Scientists have introduced an innovative method for quantifying the value...

In the quest to visualize the landscapes of our Mesolithic ancestors, scientists have turned to an unlikely source: hazelnut shells. Preserved through the ages, these shells offer a window into the past, unveiling whether ancient microhabitats surrounding archaeological sites were dense forests or open pastures. 



Consequently, this innovative approach not only paints a picture of past environments but also sheds light on the impacts that humans have had on these habitats over millennia.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-hazelnut-shells-at-archaeological-sites">Hazelnut shells at archaeological sites</h2>



Dr. Amy Styring from the <a href="https://www.ox.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Oxford</a> and her team have pioneered this research, focusing on hazelnuts found at archaeological sites across southern Sweden. The sites span from Mesolithic hunter-gatherer camps to major Iron Age settlements, providing a broad timeline for their study. 



"By analyzing the carbon in hazelnuts from these varied periods, we've discovered a shift towards harvesting in increasingly open environments," said Dr. Styring. This finding is crucial for understanding the interaction between early humans and their surroundings.



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



Hazelnuts have been a staple for northern Europeans for thousands of years, valued for their nutritional benefits and versatility. "The nuts were a significant source of energy and protein, easily stored and consumed in various forms," noted study senior author Dr. Karl Ljung of Lund University. 



Beyond their nutritional value, hazelnut shells served as a practical fuel source, highlighting the multifaceted role of hazel trees in early human societies.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-insights-from-hazelnut-shells">Insights from hazelnut shells</h2>



Focusing on the science, the study revolves around carbon isotopes found in hazel <a href="https://www.earth.com/video/remote-sensing-will-revolutionize-the-way-we-monitor-trees/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">trees</a>. These isotopes vary according to the tree's exposure to sunlight and water, influenced by the density of surrounding vegetation. 



Specifically, in sun-rich, water-abundant Sweden, sunlight plays a pivotal role, making hazelnuts from open areas richer in certain carbon isotopes. "A hazelnut shell from an archaeological site thus acts as a record of the openness of the environment from which it was collected," said Ljung.



To confirm their method, the researchers collected hazelnuts from current hazeltrees in southern Sweden, exposed to different light levels, analyzing the carbon isotope values and their correlation with sunlight exposure. 



The experts applied these findings to hazelnut shells excavated from various archaeological sites, categorizing them into closed, open, or semi-open environments based on their carbon isotope composition.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-evolving-landscapes-and-human-influence">Evolving landscapes and human influence</h2>



The study reveals a compelling narrative about how the environment around human settlements evolved over millennia. Initially, in the Mesolithic era, the research indicates that people primarily collected hazelnut shells from dense, forested areas. This suggests a landscape dominated by thick woodlands. 



However, by the Iron Age, the findings depict a shift to predominantly gathering hazelnuts from open areas, indicating significant environmental changes. This is possibly due to human activities like agriculture or natural climate fluctuations.



Several factors could have contributed to the transformation. Human activities like clearing <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/forests-around-the-world-are-turning-brown-during-summer/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">forests</a> for agriculture likely played a role, creating open fields. Alternatively, natural changes in climate may have influenced forest density.



This evolution shows humans increasingly affecting the environment. Also, the move to collect hazelnuts from open areas in the Iron Age suggests humans had already changed the landscape. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-future-directions-and-impact">Future directions and impact</h2>



"Our study unveils new avenues for connecting environmental changes directly to human activities," said Dr. Styring. Eagerly, the team plans to broaden their research by examining hazelnut shells from more sites. This expansion aims to deepen our understanding of ancient landscapes and human impacts. 



Ultimately, the research urges us to reconsider our current relationship with forests, offering a new perspective on the value of conserving natural <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/insects-thrive-in-restored-habitats-near-solar-energy-facilities/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">habitats</a>.



 The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fearc.2024.1351411/full" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Frontiers in Environmental Archaeology</a>.



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Hazelnut shells offer a glimpse of ancient landscapes

In the quest to visualize the landscapes of our Mesolithic...

Rainbow,Appears,Obove,Rocks,In,The,Aegean,Sea,After,A

A period known as the Carnian Pluvial Event, which occurred about 232 million years ago, marked a dramatic turn in Earth's climate history.&nbsp;



In an extraordinary shift, the planet transitioned from arid conditions to a prolonged phase of intense <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/extreme-rainfall-will-wreak-havoc-on-mountain-ranges-as-warming-climate-turns-snow-to-rain/">rainfall</a> that lasted between one and two million years.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-world-dominated-by-rain">A world dominated by rain</h2>



This significant event was initially identified through the examination of peculiar sediment layers in ancient rocks during the late 20th century, and has since captivated the scientific community.&nbsp;



The evidence, found in diverse geographical locations from the Eastern Alps to the UK, points towards a world that was dominated by wet conditions, fundamentally altering the course of life on Earth.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-unusual-sediment-layers-nbsp">Unusual sediment layers&nbsp;</h2>



The story began to unfold in the 1970s and 80s when geologists stumbled upon unusual sediment layers embedded within <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/natural-rock-weathering-is-a-co2-source-comparable-to-volcanoes/">ancient rocks</a>. 



In the Eastern Alps, researchers found evidence of siliciclastic sedimentation - a deposit typically associated with water - within carbonate rocks. 



Similarly, in the UK, geologist and forensic scientist Alastair Ruffell investigated a layer of gray rock deposited within the region's characteristic red stone.&nbsp;



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



The findings indicated a sudden and prolonged increase in precipitation that coincided with the dawn of the age of the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/nuclear-winter-dinosaurs-were-likely-killed-by-dust/">dinosaurs</a> - a time when these prehistoric giants began to diversify and flourish.&nbsp;



This correlation hinted at the possibility that the wet conditions could have been a catalyst for the evolutionary success of dinosaurs and other terrestrial fauna, marking a pivotal moment in Earth's biological history.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-carnian-pluvial-event-nbsp">The Carnian Pluvial Event&nbsp;</h2>



The Carnian Pluvial Event, also known as the Carnian crisis, has left its mark in geological records across the globe, suggesting a widespread environmental impact.&nbsp;



The primary driver behind this extraordinary shift in climate appears to be a massive <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/underwater-volcanic-eruptions-are-more-harmful-than-previously-believed/">volcanic eruption</a> within the Wrangellia Large Igneous Province, stretching from south-central Alaska through the coast of British Columbia.&nbsp;



Jacopo Dal Corso, a researcher involved in studying the event, highlighted the eruption's colossal impact on the atmosphere, with the discharge of greenhouse gases such as carbon dioxide triggering spikes in global warming. 



This period of heightened volcanic activity coincided with Pangea, a supercontinent that dominated the Earth's landscape. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-monsoon-conditions-were-intensified-nbsp">Monsoon conditions were intensified&nbsp;</h2>



The geographical configuration of Pangea was already conducive to monsoon conditions, where moist air from the oceans would be drawn inland, cooling and precipitating as heavy rain.&nbsp;



Professor Paul Wignall of the <a href="https://www.leeds.ac.uk/">University of Leeds</a> told New Scientist that the seas during this time were extraordinarily warm, comparing them the temperature of "hot soup." 



This ocean heat would have exacerbated the conditions for more frequent and intense monsoons, leading to unprecedented rainfall over land.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-drastic-climate-changes-nbsp">Drastic climate changes&nbsp;</h2>



However, the Carnian Pluvial Event was not without its detrimental effects on life. Research published in the <a href="https://www.lyellcollection.org/doi/full/10.1144/jgs2018-049#sec-6">Journal of the Geological Society</a> paints a grim picture of the environmental challenges during this time.&nbsp;



The volcanic eruptions that kickstarted this period were responsible for generating acid rain and releasing additional greenhouse gases, leading to rapid climate change.&nbsp;



This "shock warming" had catastrophic effects, including the stripping of vegetation and soils, as well as causing ocean anoxia and acidification. Such harsh conditions resulted in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/decaying-tree-roots-may-have-caused-mass-extinctions/">mass extinctions</a>, reshaping the ecological landscape.



Ultimately, the drastic climate changes of the Carnian Pluvial Event paved the way for new forms of life to emerge and diversify, setting the stage for the dominance of dinosaurs and other modern terrestrial fauna. 



This event underscores the complex relationship between catastrophic environmental changes and evolutionary processes, offering valuable insights into the resilience and adaptability of life on Earth.



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Earth endured over one million years of rain in the "Carnian Pluvial Event"

A period known as the Carnian Pluvial Event, which occurred...

Coral reefs are vibrant underwater ecosystems teeming with life. But they're facing a major threat: coral bleaching, triggered by rising <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/rescue-underway-florida-is-battling-an-unprecedented-coral-bleaching-crisis/">water temperatures</a>. This phenomenon causes corals to expel the algae living within their tissues, leaving them vulnerable to death.



New research from <a href="https://english.gxu.edu.cn/">Guangxi University</a> reveals that microbes living within corals might hold the key to their survival.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-microbes-and-coral-bleaching">Microbes and coral bleaching</h2>



Reefs are ecosystems built by tiny animals called corals. Microscopic organisms, including bacteria, fungi, and algae, live inside coral tissues in a mutually beneficial relationship.&nbsp;



These tiny microbes help the corals obtain nutrients, produce food using <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/access-to-sunlight-is-critical-for-the-survival-of-coral-reefs/">sunlight</a>, and resist environmental damage. However, if the water temperature rises excessively, the corals expel the algae, causing them to lose their color and essential nutrients, known as coral bleaching.



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



The researchers studied the microscopic organisms residing within corals found in the South China Sea. The goal of the investigation was to determine how microbes may influence a reef's resistance to coral bleaching.



The team examined 18 different coral species and discovered patterns within the communities of microscopic organisms living inside them. These patterns were linked to the coral's susceptibility to bleaching.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-dual-role-of-microbes">The dual role of microbes</h2>



The study revealed that corals which are resistant to bleaching often have many heat-resistant Symbiodiniaceae in their tissues. This algae is essential for the coral's survival, as it helps them tolerate warmer water.



On the other hand, corals that are more prone to bleaching were found to have a wider variety of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/fungi-engage-in-more-conversations-after-rainfall/">fungi</a>, including some that might be harmful.&nbsp;



This finding indicates that the health of corals is strongly linked to the makeup of their microscopic companions. Corals with a diverse community of heat-resistant algae are better equipped to handle the challenges of climate change.&nbsp;



“Our study highlights the ecological effects of microbiome dynamics and interactions between Symbiodiniaceae and fungi on coral thermal bleaching susceptibility, providing insights into the role of microorganisms and their interaction as drivers of interspecific differences in coral thermal bleaching,” explained study lead author Biao Chen, an assistant professor at Guangxi University.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-far-reaching-impacts-of-coral-bleaching">Far-reaching impacts of coral bleaching</h2>



If coral bleaching becomes more frequent, it could have significant consequences for both the environment and human societies. Coral bleaching poses a threat to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/dramatic-increase-in-shipping-traffic-threatens-marine-life/">marine life</a>, jobs, and even the safety of coastal communities.



Bleaching causes coral reefs to lose their richness and variety. This translates to fewer fish and other sea creatures, impacting the livelihoods of fishers and people who depend on the ocean for food.&nbsp;



Tourism, which thrives on the beauty and exploration of these vibrant underwater worlds, would also decline with increased bleaching events.&nbsp;



Furthermore, coral reefs act as natural barriers, protecting <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/human-activity-impacts-97-percent-of-the-worlds-coastline/">coastlines</a> from powerful waves and storms. Without this protection, beaches could erode, and coastal areas would be more vulnerable to storm damage.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-learning-how-microbes-help-corals">Learning how microbes help corals</h2>



The study emphasizes the importance of coral microbiome - the collective of microorganisms living with corals.&nbsp;



The scientists propose creating a global database of coral reef microbial communities and conducting further research across various disciplines, including ecology, marine chemistry, and oceanography. This can provide deeper insights into how microbes can help coral reefs adapt and survive in a warming world.



The research provides a roadmap for developing new ways to save coral reefs, which could involve changing the makeup of the tiny organisms living inside them.&nbsp;



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://journals.asm.org/doi/10.1128/aem.01939-23" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Applied and Environmental Microbiology</a>.



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Microbes have a surprising influence on coral bleaching

Coral reefs are vibrant underwater ecosystems teeming with life. But...

Landscape,Of,Lake,Tahtarjavr,With,Transparent,Water,,Rocky,Bottom,And

As the Arctic experiences unprecedented warming rates -- up to four times faster than the global average -- the repercussions on its environment, particularly in terms of rivers and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/melting-arctic-rivers-could-unleash-carbon-equal-to-millions-of-cars/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">water flow distribution</a>, have become a focal point of scientific inquiry. 



Researchers from the <a href="https://www.umass.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Massachusetts Amherst</a> have taken significant strides in demystifying these impacts. The team leveraged satellite data, field observations, and advanced numerical models to predict the Arctic's transformation over the next 80 years.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-deciphering-the-arctic-s-transformation">Deciphering the Arctic's transformation</h2>



The study, published in The Cryosphere, anticipates a warmer and wetter Arctic, with projections of up to 25% increase in runoff, a 30% rise in subsurface runoff, and a drier southern Arctic. 



This comprehensive analysis offers an insightful glimpse into the future of this critical region's landscape and climate dynamics.



Permafrost, the Arctic's perennially frozen ground, is a key player in this ecological equation. It influences everything from seasonal water flows to the amount of carbon released into oceans. 



However, the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/climate-change-is-transforming-arctic-rivers-in-unexpected-ways/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">accelerated warming</a> of the Arctic threatens to thaw these carbon-rich soils, potentially releasing significant amounts of carbon into rivers and the atmosphere annually. 



This thawing not only impacts carbon release but also intensifies the water cycle, affecting precipitation, runoff, and evaporation patterns.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-behind-the-scenes-modeling-the-arctic-s-water-balance">Behind the Scenes: Modeling the Arctic's water balance</h2>



<a href="https://websites.umass.edu/mrawlins/research/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Michael Rawlins</a>, the lead author of the study and an associate professor at UMass Amherst, has dedicated two decades to developing the Permafrost Water Balance Model. 



This model examines how the thawing permafrost and a thickening active layer -- a result of increased temperatures -- affect the region's hydrology. 



Rawlins, alongside colleagues and collaborators, including <a href="https://web.uri.edu/geo/meet/ambarish-karmalkar/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Ambarish Karmalkar</a>, now at the <a href="https://www.uri.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Rhode Island</a>, used climate models to explore future scenarios ranging from moderate to high emissions.



The findings are revealing. A thicker active layer acts as a larger "bucket," storing more water and altering when and how water is released into the Arctic's rivers and streams. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-arctic-rivers-will-never-be-the-same">Arctic rivers will never be the same</h2>



Specifically, the research predicts that the ground will not freeze as early in the year, leading to increased runoff to rivers in the fall and a significant rise in subsurface runoff by 2100. 



“Our work shows that as precipitation intensifies, the water will be stored longer in thawed soils and released at a later time via subsurface pathways, instead of running off immediately into rivers and streams, as much of it does now," Rawlins explained.



This <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/arctic-amplification-is-destabilizing-the-delicate-balance-of-the-ecosystem/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">phenomenon</a> will predominantly affect northern parts of the Arctic, where evaporating water from an increasingly ice-free Arctic Ocean will also contribute to the changes.



Southern Arctic regions, on the other hand, are expected to dry out due to enhanced evaporation and plant transpiration. These shifts have profound implications for the Arctic's ecology and hydrology. 



Northern rivers, particularly the Ob, Yenisey, Lena, and Mackenzie, will carry more water from their northern stretches, potentially mobilizing ancient soil carbon into the Arctic Ocean. 



This increased discharge could influence sea ice dynamics, the ecology of Arctic lagoons, and even the global climate by impacting ocean freshwater storage and the Atlantic meridional <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/additional-heat-is-being-transferred-to-the-arctic-ocean-as-the-climate-warms/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">overturning circulation</a>, crucial for Europe's temperate climate.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-understanding-and-conserving-arctic-rivers">Understanding and conserving Arctic rivers</h2>



Rawlins underscores the need for further research to refine these predictions, saying, “More field observations are needed from the small- and medium-sized rivers near the Arctic coast to better understand how warming will alter the land-to-ocean transport of freshwater and, in turn, impact Arctic environments and the flora, fauna and Indigenous populations that call the region their home.”



This alarming study underscores the urgency of addressing climate change and highlights the interconnectedness of global systems. As the Arctic continues to warm, the effects will resonate beyond its borders, affecting global weather patterns, sea levels, and climate. 



The work of Rawlins and his team is a clarion call to deepen our understanding of these processes and to mitigate the impacts of our changing world.



The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://tc.copernicus.org/articles/18/1033/2024/">The Cryosphere</a>.



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Arctic rivers are undergoing dramatic change from thawing permafrost

As the Arctic experiences unprecedented warming rates -- up to...

Imagine waking up from a winter nap to find that it's already spring. This has become the reality for many bats thanks to rising temperatures and climate change. 



A study from the <a href="https://web.ub.edu/en/web/ub/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Barcelona</a> shows how bats are adjusting to shorter winters. This affects their sleep patterns, where they travel, and their job as nature's pest control.



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



Many bat species living in areas with moderate climates use <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/hibernation-may-be-key-to-extraordinary-longevity-in-bats/">hibernation</a> as a way to survive the winter. This is a difficult time for bats because their usual food source, insects, are not readily available. To deal with this, bats enter a state called torpor.&nbsp;



In the state of torpor, the bats' body functions slow down significantly. Their body temperature drops, and they use much less <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/solar-power-has-won-the-prize-to-become-earths-main-source-of-energy/">energy</a> than usual. This allows the bats to live off the fat they stored up before winter and survive the cold months without needing to find food.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-schreiber-s-bent-winged-bats">Schreiber's bent-winged bats</h2>



The Barcelona team studied Schreiber's bent-winged bats for 20 years to see how they cope with rising temperatures. They tracked the bats' weight and fat content throughout their hibernation cycle.&nbsp;



The researchers observed that these bats entered and exited hibernation weighing less over time, even though winter <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/rising-temperatures-linked-to-vision-impairment/">temperatures</a> became warmer during the study period. Interestingly, despite this weight loss, the bats didn't lose a significant amount of fat reserves.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-earlier-spring-activity">Earlier spring activity</h2>



As the Earth's temperature rises, winters are becoming milder and springs are starting earlier. This has led bats to wake up from their winter sleep sooner than usual. While this change might seem like a good thing at first, allowing them to be active for a longer period, it also comes with risks.



“The fat reserves they accumulate should be large enough to survive the whole winter without eating. However, due to shorter winters and higher temperatures, bats are not fattening up in autumn as they used to do years ago, because they do not need that much fat to get through the winter," explained Professor Jordi Serra-Cobo.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-bats-are-hibernating-in-warmer-caves">Bats are hibernating in warmer caves</h2>



In the past, bats preferred the cooler, deeper parts of caves to hibernate during winter. However, due to rising global temperatures, these areas are losing their coolness. As a result, bats are being forced to find cooler spots closer to cave entrances for their hibernation. 



The shift in location exposes them to greater danger from <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/butterflies-use-visual-and-behavioral-mimicry-to-avoid-predators/">predators</a>, like genets, who can more easily access these areas near the cave opening. This new challenge makes it even harder for bats to survive the winter.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-potential-impact-on-pest-control">Potential impact on pest control</h2>



As previously mentioned, bats are very important for keeping insect populations, including harmful pests and insects that spread diseases, under control.&nbsp;



Waking up early in spring could have a big impact on the life cycle of the insects they eat. If both the bats and the insects wake up earlier at the same time due to warmer weather, it might not affect how well the bats control pest populations.&nbsp;



This suggests that there is a complex balance in nature where changes in one animal's behavior due to climate change can affect other things in the environment, like pest control. However, unpredictable <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/extreme-weather-is-becoming-more-difficult-to-predict/">weather</a> - especially an unexpected cold snap in the spring - could be dangerous for bats that wake up early because they won't have enough stored fat to survive.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-varying-impacts-across-all-bat-species">Varying impacts across all bat species</h2>



The experts found that different bat species are affected by climate change in different ways. Bats that live in areas like the Mediterranean, which are already warm, seem to be better able to handle climate change than bats in colder regions. This shows that climate change can have complicated effects on wildlife, with some animals being able to adapt to new conditions more easily than others.&nbsp;



The study serves as a stark reminder of the far-reaching effects of climate change, even on resilient creatures like bats. As the world warms, understanding and addressing the complex challenges they face will be crucial to ensure their survival in a rapidly changing environment.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://doi.org/10.1038/s41598-024-52459-9" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Scientific Reports</a>.



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Climate change is waking bats up from hibernation too early

Imagine waking up from a winter nap to find that...

Global carbon dioxide emissions from <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/air-pollution-from-fossil-fuels-kills-5-million-people-each-year/">fossil fuels</a> reached an unprecedented level in 2023, according to an international team of experts. The researchers said the continued rise in emissions from the burning of oil, coal, and natural gas is impeding progress to limit global warming.



The Global Carbon Budget assessment serves as an annual health check for Earth's <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/droughts-are-disrupting-earths-largest-carbon-storage-source/">carbon cycle</a>. The analysis quantifies the carbon added to the atmosphere through fossil fuel combustion and land-use changes, alongside the carbon sequestered by terrestrial and marine ecosystems.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-global-carbon-dioxide-from-fossil-fuels-nbsp">Global carbon dioxide from fossil fuels&nbsp;</h2>



The preliminary analysis for 2023 unveiled a 1.1 percent increase in fossil fuel emissions over 2022, totaling 36.8 billion metric tons of carbon dioxide.&nbsp;



When accounting for additional sources like deforestation and the severe wildfire season in Canada, the total emissions for <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/global-co2-emissions-expected-to-reach-a-new-high-in-2023/">2023</a> were estimated at 40.9 billion metric tons. According to the analysis, both 2022 and 2023 saw record increases in carbon dioxide from fossil fuels.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-atmospheric-concentration-of-carbon-dioxide-nbsp">Atmospheric concentration of carbon dioxide&nbsp;</h2>



Ben Poulter, a co-author of the report and a scientist at NASA’s Goddard Space Flight Center, expressed concern over the trajectory of emissions, emphasizing that they are moving in the opposite direction needed to mitigate global warming.&nbsp;



Since the dawn of the industrial era in 1750, the atmospheric concentration of carbon dioxide has surged from approximately 278 parts per million to 420 parts per million in 2023, fueling a significant increase in Earth's surface temperature.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-hottest-year-on-record">Hottest year on record</h2>



The year 2023 set a new record as the hottest year, with average temperatures reaching 1.2 degrees Celsius (2.1 degrees Fahrenheit) above the mid-20th-century baseline, predominantly due to the accumulation of heat-trapping greenhouse gases.



The team utilized NASA’s Goddard Earth Observing System (GEOS) to create visualizations that map carbon emissions and absorption across the globe, integrating data on <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/vegetation-impacts-energy-movement-in-the-arctic/">vegetation</a>, human population density, and various infrastructural elements. 



<div class="wp-block-sendtonews-playerselector">[sendtonews key="y3PgqY2vL7-3448891-12187" type="single"]</div>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-natural-carbon-sinks">Natural carbon sinks</h2>



“Amazingly, the ocean and land continue to absorb about half of the carbon we emit,” said Poulter. “Only about 44 percent of emissions stay in the atmosphere each year, slowing the rate of climate change, but causing ocean acidification and altering how land ecosystems function.”



Concerns are mounting over the enduring capacity of natural <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/extreme-weather-can-flip-forests-from-carbon-sinks-to-carbon-sources/">carbon sinks</a>. A study led by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) in 2023 uncovered signs that the ocean's carbon storage capability is waning, potentially due to its prolonged role in absorbing carbon dioxide, along with alterations in global ocean circulation affecting deep-sea carbon sequestration.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-global-carbon-budget-nbsp">The Global Carbon Budget&nbsp;</h2>



The Global Carbon Budget incorporates diverse data sources, including government and energy agency emissions inventories and satellite data from NASA’s OCO-2 instrument, to construct an exhaustive overview of the global carbon cycle.&nbsp;



While emissions have shown signs of decline in regions such as Europe and the United States, a global perspective reveals an overall rise, with significant increases noted in India and China.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-paris-agreement-nbsp">The Paris Agreement&nbsp;</h2>



The implications of this trend are stark in the context of the Paris Agreement, established in December 2015. The goal of this international treaty is to keep global warming well below 2 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels and pursue efforts to limit the temperature increase to 1.5°C.&nbsp;



At the current rate of emissions, the analysis suggests a 50 percent chance of surpassing the 1.5°C threshold within approximately seven years.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-greenhouse-gas-emissions-data">Greenhouse gas emissions data</h2>



In response to these challenges, NASA and other U.S. federal agencies continue to collect and disseminate <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ponds-release-more-greenhouse-gases-than-they-store/">greenhouse gas</a> emissions data, contributing to the establishment of the U.S. Greenhouse Gas Center.&nbsp;



This multi-agency initiative aims to consolidate observational and model-based information, providing a comprehensive resource for policymakers and decision-makers to navigate the complexities of climate change mitigation.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-transitioning-away-from-fossil-fuels-nbsp">Transitioning away from fossil fuels&nbsp;</h2>



Glen Peters is an expert in the Centre for International Climate Research (CICERO) in Norway. Just before the Global Carbon Budget report was released in December, Peters commented on the lack of significant progress in transitioning to clean energy. He recalled that scientists were optimistic in 2015, hoping that emission levels might peak.



“Yet, here we are again, with a new peak in 2022, and yet another peak expected again in 2023,” said Peters. “My concern is that we are doing half the job, growing clean energy, and not doing the other half of the job, transitioning away from fossil fuels.”



Video Credit: NASA Earth Observatory&nbsp;



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Global carbon dioxide emissions hit a record high in 2023

Global carbon dioxide emissions from fossil fuels reached an unprecedented...

In a new study from <a href="https://www.ucdavis.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">UC Davis</a>, researchers have discovered that invasive plant species can lie dormant for extended periods - spanning decades to centuries - before abruptly proliferating and causing significant ecological damage.&nbsp;



The experts scrutinized over 5,700 <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-many-invasive-plant-species-are-in-the-world/">invasive plant species</a> across nine global regions, marking it as the most exhaustive study of its kind, according to senior author Mohsen Mesgaran, an assistant professor in the Department of Plant Sciences at UC Davis.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-invasive-time-bombs-nbsp">Invasive time bombs&nbsp;</h2>



Mesgaran highlighted the deceptive nature of these dormant phases: “The longer it is dormant, we’re more likely to ignore it. This latency allows them to be overlooked, contributing to their eventual emergence as a serious invasive threat. They’re like invasive time bombs.”



The study's findings reveal that about one-third of the analyzed invasive plants underwent a significant lag between their introduction and sudden expansion, with an average dormancy period of 40 years.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-dormant-invasive-plants">Dormant invasive plants</h2>



The record for the longest dormancy was held by sycamore maples in the United Kingdom, clocking in at 320 years.&nbsp;



In the United States, the common lawn weed Plantago lanceolata, also known as ribwort or buckhorn plantain, boasts the longest dormancy period. Introduced in 1822, this plant, detrimental to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/bacteria-in-livestock-are-major-drivers-of-antibiotic-resistance/">livestock</a> and native flora, is now widespread across the country.&nbsp;



Another plant, velvetleaf, introduced as a potential fiber crop, can remain dormant for 50 years before spreading and threatening vital <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/future-corn-crops-could-have-higher-drought-tolerance/">crops</a> like corn and soybeans by depleting water and nutrients.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-more-problems-ahead">More problems ahead</h2>



The experts argue that <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/non-native-species-can-have-unexpected-benefits/">non-native species</a> introductions occur either accidentally or through deliberate importation for uses such as medicinal, ornamental, or agricultural purposes. In California alone, approximately 65% of invasive plants were introduced intentionally.&nbsp;



“This lag phase may have played a role,” Mesgaran said. “They didn’t know. With an increase in trade and transportation and tourism we’re going to have more problems.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-waiting-for-favorable-conditions-nbsp">Waiting for favorable conditions&nbsp;</h2>



To compile their data, the researchers drew from global herbarium records, which are digitized and publicly accessible, to track the occurrence and timeline of these invasive species across various regions, including Australia, Great Britain, Ireland, Japan, New Zealand, Madagascar, South Africa, and the United States.&nbsp;



By analyzing these records and comparing climate conditions during dormant versus expansion phases, the team discovered that many species waited for or adapted to favorable conditions before spreading, indicating that <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/managing-invasive-species-can-improve-climate-resilience/">climate</a> plays a significant role in these invasions.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-dormancy-and-risk-assessment">Dormancy and risk assessment </h2>



This knowledge is crucial for future pest management and invasion prevention strategies, suggesting that existing risk assessment models, which typically overlook dormant phases, need updating.&nbsp;



“The problem is most of the models that we have for risk assessment to see if the species are going to be invasive and a pest problem in the future don’t account for this lag phase or this dormant phase,” Mesgaran said. “It’s not that they’re not going to be a problem, it’s just the calm before the storm.”



As the research progresses, the team plans to investigate how the native climates of these invasive species compare to their new environments, shedding further light on the mechanisms behind their spread and dormancy.



The study is published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1038/s41559-023-02313-4" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature Ecology &amp; Evolution</a>.



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Time bombs: Invasive plants can lie dormant for centuries

In a new study from UC Davis, researchers have discovered...

Have you ever thought of rivers as being living things? They gurgle, flow, and teem with life, but did you know they also "breathe"? Scientists at the <a href="https://www.pnnl.gov/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Pacific Northwest National Laboratory</a> (PNNL) are delving into the process of river respiration. 



Surprisingly, just like we take in oxygen and release carbon dioxide, rivers do the same through tiny organisms and organic matter.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-respiration-process-in-rivers">Respiration process in rivers</h2>



Rivers "breathe" through a complex series of chemical reactions carried out by tiny organisms like bacteria and algae. They absorb dissolved oxygen from the water, similar to how we breathe air.&nbsp;



The <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/breathing-less-oxygen-could-extend-your-lifespan-by-50-or-more/">oxygen</a> fuels a process called decomposition, where they break down dead plants, algae, and animal waste in the river. This breakdown releases energy, which these organisms need to survive and grow, just like we get energy from food.&nbsp;



Rivers also release carbon dioxide back into the water, like humans do when we exhale. Importantly, this process releases essential nutrients - like <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/kelp-farms-could-help-clean-up-coastal-nitrogen-pollution/">nitrogen</a> and phosphorus -&nbsp; that are vital for the growth of other organisms in the river.&nbsp;



The entire cycle, from oxygen absorption to nutrient release, is essential for maintaining healthy oxygen levels in the river and supporting a diverse range of life underwater.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-organic-matter-as-fuel">Organic matter as fuel</h2>



As previously mentioned, rivers contain tiny pieces of dead plants and animals, which is called organic matter. This organic matter acts as food for organisms in the water and helps keep the water clean and healthy.&nbsp;



The type of organic matter present depends on various factors like how the land around the river is used, if there is any <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/traffic-pollution-has-an-immediate-impact-on-blood-pressure/">pollution</a>, and if there have been any disturbances in the environment, both natural and human-caused.&nbsp;



Interestingly, the speed of breakdown depends on the type of matter. Some things, like wood and leaves, take longer to “digest." Knowing how fast things break down is important for keeping rivers healthy and usable.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-where-does-river-respiration-occur">Where does river respiration occur?</h2>



The location of the respiration can vary greatly. For instance, in the wide Columbia River, most of the river’s respiration happens in the water itself. The vast amount of water provides a large space for this process to take place.&nbsp;



In smaller streams, however, the bottom sediment becomes the key location for microbial respiration. This is because the sediment is in direct contact with organic matter that sinks to the bottom, providing a rich food source for <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/microbes-found-that-can-digest-plastic-in-freezing-temperatures/">microbes</a>.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-fluctuations-in-river-respiration-nbsp">Fluctuations in river respiration&nbsp;</h2>



The size of the sediment particles also plays a role in how quickly respiration occurs. Larger rocks in the sediment create more space and surfaces for microbes to live and work on, potentially making respiration more efficient. The increased activity not only helps break down organic matter but also helps the river clean itself by breaking down pollutants.



Therefore, where and how much respiration happens in a river system is constantly changing and depends on both the physical features of the river, like the amount of water and the size of the sediment particles, and where <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/soil-management-can-save-corn-production-climate-change/">organic matter</a> is located.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-water-quality-management-nbsp">Water quality management&nbsp;</h2>



The research on the breakdown of organic matter in rivers has important implications for several areas. For example, it can help improve water quality management.&nbsp;



By understanding what factors influence how quickly organic matter decomposes, scientists and policymakers can develop better strategies for cleaning up rivers. They can identify the pollutants that break down the slowest and focus on removing those first.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-river-conservation-nbsp">River conservation&nbsp;</h2>



Moreover, the study can inform conservation efforts. If we know how rivers function, we can take better care of them. Healthy rivers provide clean water, habitat for fish and other wildlife, and help regulate nutrients.&nbsp;



"Understanding what principles regulate processes and how they work across systems is a key goal of our work," explained PNNL Earth scientist Allison Myers-Pigg.



"This knowledge provides a foundation for building models that can predict the future health of streams and rivers, including how they might be impacted by big disturbances. Without this knowledge, we cannot make accurate predictions."&nbsp;



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://doi.org/10.3389/frwa.2023.1169701" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Frontiers in Water</a>.



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River respiration is a lot like breathing in humans

Have you ever thought of rivers as being living things?...

<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lHHxOej4QfE
</div><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Researchers found a correlation between Alzheimer's disease and traffic pollution.</figcaption></figure>



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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Traffic fumes may trigger Alzheimer's

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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What caused the planet's longest ice age

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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Greenland's ground rises while coasts worldwide face higher seas

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

AI agent training boosts mental health and profits

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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Revolutionizing agriculture through microbiome engineering

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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The environmental problem we actually solved

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

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

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</div></figure>



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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Wildlife tunnels save millions of amphibians

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

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



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



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https://youtu.be/Ug657J67iEo?si=w96YjGMsg939LD_3
</div></figure>



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Is chocolate the next nutritional powerhouse?

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



Video Credit: Amanda Nguyen/University of Illinois



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



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Designing crops that can beat the heat

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

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



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



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



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



Video Credit: NASA Goddard&nbsp;



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



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Remote sensing will revolutionize the way we monitor trees

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

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



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



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



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



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



Video Credit: ESA&nbsp;&nbsp;



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



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Lesotho: Africa's "Kingdom in the Sky"

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

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



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



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



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



Video Credit: NASA Goddard



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



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Wetlands are a major source of methane emissions

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

The rapid retreat of the Columbia Glacier

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

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



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



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



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



Video/ Image Credit: NASA Goddard



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



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

2022 illustrated the consequences of a warming climate

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

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



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



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



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



Video Credit: NASA Goddard&nbsp;



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



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

Satellites reveal how Earth's systems are interconnected

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Tiger sharks are shifting poleward as temperatures rise

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



Video Credit: ESA&nbsp;



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



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

Melt ponds on the Greenland Ice Sheet

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



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



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



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



Video Credit: ESA



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



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

Tracking changes in Earth's water cycle

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



Video Credit: NASA Goddard&nbsp;



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



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

Mysterious "spoke season" captured on Saturn

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