<p>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. </p>



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



<p>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.</p>



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



<p>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.</p>



<p>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. </p>



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



<p>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. </p>



<p>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.</p>



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



<p>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.</p>



<p>“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.”</p>



<p>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>. </p>



<p>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.</p>



<p>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.</p>



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



<p>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. </p>



<p>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.</p>



<p>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.</p>



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



<p>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. </p>



<p>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.</p>



<p>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.</p>



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



<p>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.</p>



<p>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. </p>



<p>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.</p>



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



<p>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.</p>



<p>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. </p>



<p>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.</p>



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



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



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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...

<p>Deep in the Arctic, beluga whales gather in vibrant groups and rely heavily on their social bonds for survival.</p>



<p>In a new study published in the journal <a href="https://doi.org/10.3389/fmars.2024.1359429"><em>Frontiers in Marine Science</em></a>, experts reveal that rising ocean temperatures are disrupting the vital social structures of beluga whales.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-social-lives-of-beluga-whales">Social lives of beluga whales</h2>



<p>Beluga whales are medium-sized, white whales that live in the cold waters of the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/arctic-soil-plays-a-major-role-in-fighting-climate-change/">Arctic</a> and sub-Arctic regions. They are known for the distinctive bulges on their foreheads called melons and their diverse vocalizations, which earned them the nickname "canaries of the sea."&nbsp;</p>



<p>Beluga whales live in groups called pods, which can be small or large, with hundreds of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/can-whales-contribute-to-carbon-capture/">whales</a> gathering during migrations or when food is plentiful. Belugas communicate with each other using a wide variety of sounds to help them navigate, hunt, and stay together in the dark waters of their habitat.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-living-in-groups-nbsp">Living in groups&nbsp;</h2>



<p>Living in groups is essential for the whales. It protects them from <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/coyotes-move-into-towns-to-avoid-predators-only-to-be-killed-by-humans/">predators</a>, helps them find food more efficiently, and allows them to raise their young together.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Young whales learn important skills like hunting and navigation by watching and copying other whales in their group. These strong social bonds and cooperative behaviors show how important it is to protect the beluga whales' habitat.&nbsp;</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-challenges-in-studying-beluga-whales">Challenges in studying beluga whales</h2>



<p>Studying beluga whales in the Arctic is difficult because of their remote location and harsh environment. Traditional research methods are expensive, require a lot of work, and only cover small areas, which means scientists might not get all the information they need.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The research introduces a new way to study beluga whales using deep learning, a type of artificial intelligence. Scientists trained computers to analyze high-resolution satellite images using a specific technique called Deep Convolutional Neural Networks. This allowed them to identify groups of beluga whales directly from space.&nbsp;</p>



<p>However, the researchers also acknowledge the limitation of the model. "Unfortunately, in areas where icebergs of similar size to beluga whales were present, the accuracy of the models was not good (less than 50% accuracy), and the images were photo-interpreted to detect beluga whales manually," explain the researchers.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ocean-temperature-and-changing-social-habits">Ocean temperature and changing social habits</h2>



<p>During the summer, beluga whales gather in large groups for feeding and socializing. The researchers observed that these groups became smaller as the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ocean-temperatures-hit-a-record-high-this-week-with-the-worst-heat-still-to-come/">ocean temperature</a> increased. This pattern was consistent across all 11 beluga whale populations studied, suggesting a widespread trend.</p>



<p>The researchers also analyzed the data statistically and confirmed a negative relationship between water temperature and group size. They measured the minimum distance between individual whales within the groups and found that this distance increased as the water temperature became warmer.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-alarming-predictions">Alarming predictions</h2>



<p>The study predicts that rising ocean temperatures due to climate change will pose significant challenges for beluga whales. The research suggests that the ocean temperatures in the Arctic and sub-Arctic regions could rise by up to 3°C by the end of the century.</p>



<p>"This could, in turn, push their distribution patterns towards cooler southern areas, overlapping with northward distribution shifts of other marine mammal species, increasing habitat and resource competition or even leading to drastic population depletion, depending on species ability to adapt to new climate scenarios," the team noted.</p>



<p>The study highlights the need to understand how beluga whales will adapt to these changes. Whether they can find new habitats, adjust their migration patterns, or even change their diet will be crucial for their survival. If they are unable to adapt, the study warns of drastic population declines.</p>



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



<p>"Under this scenario, we recommend a prompt and global reduction of gas emissions and the protection of beluga whale territories from marine traffic if we wish to preserve this vulnerable species," said the researchers.</p>



<p>The experts suggest a comprehensive strategy to help beluga whales survive. It is vital to reduce <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ponds-release-more-greenhouse-gases-than-they-store/">greenhouse gases</a> to slow global warming. We must also limit our impact on the marine environment, boost research, promote global cooperation, and engage local communities to safeguard belugas.</p>



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Beluga whales are losing their social bonds as temperatures rise

Deep in the Arctic, beluga whales gather in vibrant groups...

<p>The 1986 <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/chernobyl-wolves-have-evolved-resistance-to-cancer/">Chernobyl</a> nuclear disaster indelibly marked the region as the most radioactive environment on the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/scientists-have-discovered-a-massive-planet-too-big-for-its-sun/">planet</a>, leading to the mass evacuation of humans. Despite the high radiation levels that persist nearly four decades later, a diverse array of flora and fauna continues to inhabit the area.&nbsp;</p>



<p>A study led by researchers at <a href="https://www.nyu.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NYU</a> has shed light on the remarkable genetic resilience of microscopic worms in the Chernobyl zone. While it does not indicate that the area is safe, this finding underscores the extraordinary adaptability of these organisms to extreme conditions.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-chernobyl-radiation-and-wildlife">Chernobyl radiation and wildlife</h2>



<p>The Chernobyl Exclusion Zone, encompassing an area within an 18.6-mile radius of the power plant in northern Ukraine, has become a living laboratory for scientists studying the impacts of prolonged radiation exposure on <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/conservation-efforts-are-not-enough-to-save-antarctic-wildlife/">wildlife</a>.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Observations have revealed that animals within the zone exhibit distinct physical and genetic characteristics compared to those living in less contaminated environments. This has propelled scientific inquiry into how chronic radiation exposure influences DNA.</p>



<p>“Chernobyl was a tragedy of incomprehensible scale, but we still don't have a great grasp on the effects of the disaster on local populations. Did the sudden environmental shift select for species, or even individuals within a species, that are naturally more resistant to ionizing radiation?” said lead author Sophia Tintori, a postdoctoral associate in the Department of Biology at NYU.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-tiny-worms-that-live-fast">Tiny worms that live fast</h2>



<p>The research team, seeking answers, focused their efforts on nematodes - tiny worms noted for their simplistic genomes and rapid life cycles, which render them particularly valuable for fundamental biological research.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“These worms live everywhere, and they live quickly, so they go through dozens of generations of evolution while a typical vertebrate is still putting on its shoes,” explained senior author Matthew Rockman, a professor of biology at NYU.</p>



<p>“I had seen footage of the exclusion zone and was surprised by how lush and overgrown it looked - I'd never thought of it as teeming with life,” Tintori added. “If I want to find worms that are particularly tolerant to radiation exposure, this is a landscape that might have already been selected for that.”</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-enhanced-tolerance-to-radiation">Enhanced tolerance to radiation</h2>



<p>This prompted Tintori to consider the possibility that the area might have naturally selected for organisms with an enhanced tolerance to radiation.&nbsp;</p>



<p>To explore this hypothesis, the research team, including collaborators from Ukraine and the United States such as biologist Timothy Mousseau of the <a href="https://sc.edu/">University of South Carolina</a>, embarked on a field expedition to the Chernobyl Exclusion Zone in 2019.&nbsp;</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-the-research-was-conducted-nbsp">How the research was conducted&nbsp;</h2>



<p>Equipped with Geiger counters and protective gear, they meticulously collected worm samples from various locations, encountering radiation levels ranging from minimal to extremely high.</p>



<p>Upon collecting the samples, the researchers transported them to Mousseau’s field lab in Chernobyl for initial analysis. They then continued their examinations in a hotel in Kyiv, isolating and cultivating nematodes using travel microscopes.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Back at NYU, the team leveraged cryopreservation techniques to halt the worms' <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/evolution-is-not-as-random-as-we-thought/">evolution</a>, allowing for a comparative analysis of specimens that had experienced different evolutionary histories.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-genetic-resilience-of-chernobyl-worms">Genetic resilience of Chernobyl worms</h2>



<p>The investigation centered on 15 worms of the species <em>Oscheius tipulae</em>, known for its relevance in genetic and evolutionary research. </p>



<p>By sequencing the genomes of these Chernobyl worms and comparing them to those of <em>O. tipulae</em> from other regions, the researchers anticipated uncovering radiation-induced genetic alterations. However, their findings did not support this hypothesis.</p>



<p>“This doesn't mean that Chornobyl is safe - it more likely means that nematodes are really resilient animals and can withstand extreme conditions,” said Tintori. “We also don’t know how long each of the worms we collected was in the Zone, so we can't be sure exactly what level of exposure each worm and its ancestors received over the past four decades.”</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-chernobyl-worms-were-not-phased-by-radiation">Chernobyl worms were not phased by radiation</h2>



<p>Intrigued by the absence of a genetic signature from radiation, the team devised an experiment to assess the worms' growth rates and sensitivity to various types of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/sexual-competition-drives-male-beetles-to-neglect-dna-repair/">DNA damage</a>.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Despite observing differences in DNA damage tolerance among the worm lineages, these variations did not align with the radiation levels at their collection sites, suggesting that the Chernobyl nematodes had not evolved a specific resistance to radiation.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-dna-repair-mechanisms-nbsp">DNA repair mechanisms&nbsp;</h2>



<p>This groundbreaking research not only highlights the nematodes' resilience but also paves the way for future studies into DNA repair mechanisms across different organisms, including humans.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“Now that we know which strains of <em>O. tipulae</em> are more sensitive or more tolerant to DNA damage, we can use these strains to study why different individuals are more likely than others to suffer the effects of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/sunflower-seeds-toxic-carcinogen/">carcinogens</a>,” Tintori explained.&nbsp;</p>



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



<p>As Tintori points out, contemplating individual variability in response to environmental DNA-damaging agents enriches our understanding of personal cancer risk factors.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The study - published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1073/pnas.2314793121"><em>Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences</em></a> - not only contributes to the field of evolutionary biology and genetics but also offers insights into human health, emphasizing the significance of genetic research in identifying and mitigating vulnerabilities to environmental carcinogens.</p>



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

Chernobyl is teeming with worms resistant to radiation

The 1986 Chernobyl nuclear disaster indelibly marked the region as...

<p>Cavum clouds, often referred to as hole-punch or fallstreak holes, present a compelling and mysterious spectacle in the sky, drawing the gaze of onlookers below.</p>



<p>These atmospheric phenomena, characterized by large, <a href="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/cavum-clouds_hole-punch-clouds_resemble-ufo_nasa_1m.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">circular openings in the clouds</a>, with delicate, feathery trails within, have sparked imaginations and fueled speculation about their origins, including theories of <a href="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/cavum-clouds_hole-punch-clouds_resemble-ufo_closeup_nasa_1m.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">UFOs and extraterrestrial activity</a>.</p>



<p>However, the true explanation behind these mesmerizing cloud holes is both terrestrial and thoroughly scientific.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-cloud-holes-the-cavum-cloud-phenomenon">Cloud holes: The cavum cloud phenomenon</h2>



<p>An impressive example of cavum clouds was observed over the Gulf of Mexico near Florida's west coast on January 30, 2024. </p>



<p>Captured by the Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (<a href="https://modis.gsfc.nasa.gov/about/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">MODIS</a>) aboard NASA's Terra satellite, this image provides a stunning view from above, showcasing the natural beauty and complexity of these <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/antibiotic-resistant-bacteria-have-been-found-in-clouds/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cloud</a> formations.</p>



<p>The intrigue surrounding cavum clouds has been a topic of scientific discourse since the 1940s, with various hypotheses proposed over the decades. </p>



<p>However, it wasn't until a comprehensive study conducted by scientists from the University Corporation for Atmospheric Research (<a href="https://www.ucar.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">UCAR</a>) and their colleagues, including those from NASA’s Langley Research Center, that a definitive explanation was provided. </p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-science-behind-the-spectacle">Science behind the spectacle</h2>



<p>Published in 2010 and 2011, their research demonstrated that these cloud formations are caused by aircraft, dispelling more fantastical theories.</p>



<p>Altocumulus clouds are mid-level <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/microplastics-found-in-clouds-may-be-affecting-the-weather/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">clouds</a> consisting of supercooled liquid water droplets. Supercooling occurs when water droplets remain liquid even at temperatures below water's typical freezing point, due to their purity and absence of particles like dust or pollen that would normally initiate ice formation. </p>



<p>This phenomenon is relatively common in the Earth's atmosphere, particularly within altocumulus clouds, which cover approximately 8% of the Earth's surface at any given time and are mostly composed of droplets supercooled to around -15°C.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-airplanes-influence-cloud-formations">How airplanes influence cloud formations</h2>



<p>The formation of cavum clouds is initiated when airplanes disrupt these delicate atmospheric conditions. As aircraft move through these clouds, the air around their wings and propellers undergoes adiabatic expansion, cooling the water droplets further, sometimes by more than 20°C. </p>



<p>This cooling can prompt the supercooled droplets to freeze, starting a chain reaction where ice crystals form and grow, eventually becoming heavy enough to fall. </p>



<p>This process leaves behind a void in the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/high-co2-levels-stratus-clouds/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cloud layer</a>, with the falling ice crystals creating the wispy trails known as virga visible in the center of the cavum.</p>



<p>The UCAR-led research, utilizing aircraft flight data, satellite observations, and weather models, revealed the dynamics of how these cloud holes form and their duration. </p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-environmental-factors-that-cause-cloud-holes">Environmental factors that cause cloud holes</h2>



<p>The study found that the shape and size of the cavum depend on the angle at which planes intersect the cloud layer -- sharp angles produce small, circular cavum, while shallow angles result in elongated "canal clouds" adorned with virga trails.</p>



<p>Factors such as the cloud layer's thickness, air temperature, and the degree of horizontal wind shear also play roles in creating these cloud holes. </p>



<p>The researchers' analysis indicated that aircraft of various types, from large passenger jets to turboprops, are capable of creating cavum and canal <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ice-shards-in-antarctic-clouds-heat-up-the-southern-ocean/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">clouds</a>. </p>



<p>With over a thousand flights arriving daily at airports like Miami International, the skies are ripe with opportunities for the formation of these fascinating cloud structures.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-when-nature-and-technology-collide">When nature and technology collide</h2>



<p>In summary, the captivating spectacle of cavum clouds, once shrouded in mystery and speculation, now stands as a testament to the fascinating interplay between natural <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/plant-pollen-may-help-clouds-form-impacting-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">atmospheric conditions</a> and human aviation activities. </p>



<p>Through the diligent efforts of scientists and researchers, we've unraveled the secrets behind these ethereal <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-do-clouds-influence-earths-climate/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cloud formations</a>, revealing the intricate processes that give rise to their beauty. </p>



<p>This exploration not only demystifies the phenomenon but also enriches our appreciation for the delicate balance between our technological endeavors and the natural world, inviting us to look up and marvel at the unexpected artistry unfolding in the sky above.</p>



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



<p>NASA's Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer, or <a href="https://www.earth.com/gallery/modis-moderate-resolution-imaging-spectroradiometer/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">MODIS</a>, stands as a pivotal instrument in the realm of Earth observation. Mounted aboard two of NASA's satellites, Terra and Aqua, MODIS provides an unparalleled vantage point for monitoring our planet's atmosphere, oceans, and land. </p>



<p>Since its first launch in 1999 on Terra and subsequently on Aqua in 2002, MODIS has been capturing the Earth's dynamic beauty and the subtle interplays within its ecosystems, offering invaluable data to scientists and researchers around the globe.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-science-behind-modis">Science behind MODIS</h3>



<p>MODIS operates with a precision that allows it to capture data in 36 spectral bands, ranging from visible to thermal infrared wavelengths. This wide spectrum enables the detection of various indicators, such as chlorophyll levels in oceans, atmospheric water vapor, and land cover changes. </p>



<p>By providing comprehensive coverage of the Earth's surface every one to two days, MODIS plays a crucial role in tracking environmental changes over time, aiding in the understanding of global dynamics and environmental processes.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-contributions-to-science-and-humanity">Contributions to science and humanity</h3>



<p>The impact of MODIS extends far beyond mere observation. Its data has been instrumental in enhancing our understanding of climate change, detecting and monitoring wildfires, assessing the health of agricultural lands, and tracking the spread of harmful algal blooms. </p>



<p>Furthermore, MODIS's ability to observe phytoplankton in the ocean contributes to our understanding of the oceanic carbon cycle, crucial for assessing the health of marine ecosystems. </p>



<p>Its versatility and breadth of vision make MODIS an essential tool for environmental management and disaster response, providing actionable insights to policymakers and emergency responders alike.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-legacy-of-modis">The legacy of MODIS</h3>



<p>As we continue to face environmental challenges, the importance of instruments like MODIS cannot be overstated. Through its lens, we gain a broader perspective of our planet's beauty and intricacies while gathering the critical data needed to protect and preserve our home.</p>



<p>The legacy of MODIS, therefore, lies not just in the data it has collected over the years, but in its contribution to fostering a deeper connection and understanding between humanity and the Earth we inhabit. </p>



<p>NASA’s MODIS (or Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer) is a key instrument aboard the&nbsp;<a href="http://terra.nasa.gov/">Terra</a>&nbsp;(originally known as EOS AM-1) and&nbsp;<a href="http://aqua.nasa.gov/">Aqua</a>&nbsp;(originally known as EOS PM-1) satellites.</p>



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NASA captures mysterious holes in cloud formations that resemble UFOs

Cavum clouds, often referred to as hole-punch or fallstreak holes,...

Arctic,Summer

<p>A new study led by the <a href="https://www.colorado.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Colorado Boulder</a> alerts us to the possibility of experiencing virtually ice-free summers in the Arctic within just a few years. </p>



<p>The research indicates that the Arctic may witness its first day without significant <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/less-ice-and-more-sunlight-may-drastically-alter-the-arctic-ocean/">ice</a> much sooner than past models, which estimated ice-free periods of a month or longer, had predicted. </p>



<p>This shift could happen over a decade earlier than previously thought, and this pattern holds true across all potential future emissions scenarios.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ice-free-months-in-the-arctic-nbsp">Ice-free months in the Arctic&nbsp;</h2>



<p>By the 2050s, it's expected that the Arctic will endure a whole month each September, the time of lowest sea ice, without its characteristic floating ice.&nbsp;</p>



<p>By the century's close, depending on the trajectory of global emissions, the region could see several months each year without ice, with a high-emission scenario possibly leading to a consistently ice-free state even during some winter months.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-drastic-reduction-in-sea-ice">Drastic reduction in sea ice</h2>



<p>However, "ice-free" in scientific terms doesn't imply a complete absence of ice. The term is used when sea ice extent falls below one million square kilometers -- a drastic reduction from the seasonal minimum coverage of the 1980s, which was less than 20% of its former extent. Recently, September sea ice levels have hovered around 3.3 million square kilometers.</p>



<p>Leading the study, Alexandra Jahn, an associate professor at CU Boulder, delved into sea ice projections and utilized climate models to evaluate future daily changes in Arctic <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/sea-ice-loss-increases-snowfall-over-west-antarctica/">sea ice</a> coverage. The findings suggest the Arctic could experience days with less than one square kilometer of sea ice much earlier than indicated by monthly averages - up to 18 years sooner in some projections.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-predicting-the-arctic-s-ice-free-days">Predicting the Arctic's ice-free days</h2>



<p>Jahn emphasizes the importance of predicting these first ice-free days, which will be evident in daily satellite data, to understand the changes occurring in the Arctic. She projects that, under every emissions scenario, the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/the-arctic-ocean-was-filled-with-freshwater-at-least-twice-in-history/">Arctic Ocean</a> might face its first ice-free day between the late 2020s and the 2030s, likely in late August or early September.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-consequences-of-shrinking-sea-ice">Consequences of shrinking sea ice</h2>



<p>The decline in sea ice, largely driven by <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/greenhouse-gas-emissions-reach-another-all-time-high/">greenhouse gas emissions</a>, not only accelerates the Arctic's warming by reducing the reflective snow and ice cover but also threatens Arctic wildlife dependent on sea ice, like seals and polar bears.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The potential invasion of non-native fish species into the warming Arctic waters and their impact on local ecosystems is a growing concern too. Furthermore, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/marine-protected-areas-improve-well-being-in-coastal-communities/">coastal communities</a> face increased risks from larger ocean waves and coastal erosion as sea ice recedes.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-fate-of-the-arctic-depends-on-emissions">Fate of the Arctic depends on emissions</h2>



<p>Jahn points out that while an ice-free Arctic seems inevitable, the frequency of such conditions will depend on future emission levels. An intermediate emissions pathway, which mirrors our current course, might limit ice-free periods to late summer and early fall.&nbsp;</p>



<p>However, the highest emissions scenario could result in the Arctic being ice-free for as long as nine months by the end of the century, marking a significant transformation of the region.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-aggressive-climate-action-is-needed">Aggressive climate action is needed</h2>



<p>Despite these daunting projections, there's a silver lining: Arctic sea ice has the capacity to recover quickly with atmospheric cooling.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“Unlike the ice sheet in Greenland that took thousands of years to build, even if we melt all the Arctic sea ice, if we can then figure out how to take CO2 back out of the atmosphere in the future to reverse warming, sea ice will come back within a decade,” Jahn said. </p>



<p>This resilience highlights the critical need for aggressive <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ipcc-climate-action-urgently-needed-to-end-human-suffering/">climate action</a> to mitigate and potentially reverse these changes.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-future-implications-and-conservation-efforts">Future implications and conservation efforts</h2>



<p>In summary, the University of Colorado Boulder's recent study forecasts the alarming possibility of experiencing ice-free summers in the Arctic within the next few years, marking a significant acceleration in the loss of sea ice compared to previous projections. </p>



<p>Highlighting the dire implications of this trend across all future emission scenarios, the research underscores the crucial role of greenhouse gas emissions in exacerbating sea ice melt and the subsequent wide-ranging effects on Arctic wildlife, local communities, and global ecosystems. </p>



<p>Despite the grim outlook, the study offers a glimmer of hope, noting the resilience of Arctic sea ice and its potential for recovery if effective measures to reduce atmospheric CO2 are implemented. </p>



<p>This pivotal research advances our understanding of climate dynamics in the Arctic and emphasizes the urgent need for sustained environmental stewardship to mitigate the impacts of climate change.</p>



<p>The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.nature.com/natrevearthenviron/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><em>Nature Reviews: Earth &amp; Environment</em></a><em>.</em></p>



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The Arctic will be ice-free in only a few more years, much sooner than once thought

A new study led by the University of Colorado Boulder...

<p>Researchers from <a href="https://www.monash.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Monash University</a> have unveiled startling data concerning the global impact of short-term <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/u-s-air-pollution-levels-have-dropped-but-not-for-everyone/">air pollution</a>. The study has revealed that a shocking number of premature deaths can be attributed to short-term exposure to fine particulate matter (PM2.5).&nbsp;</p>



<p>The researchers found that breathing in PM2.5 for even a few hours, and up to a few days, results in more than a million premature deaths worldwide every year.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-shifting-the-focus-to-short-term-pollution">Shifting the focus to short-term pollution</h2>



<p>The study, led by Professor Yuming Guo, underscores the lethal consequences of brief episodes of high air pollution.</p>



<p>This revelation shifts the focus from the long-term effects of persistent air pollution, which have been extensively studied, to the equally deadly but less understood short-term spikes in PM2.5 levels.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-short-term-pollution-exposure">Short-term pollution exposure</h2>



<p>The experts analyzed mortality and PM2.5 pollution levels across more than 13,000 cities and towns globally over two decades, up until 2019. </p>



<p>The results highlight the urgent need for addressing air pollution not just as a chronic urban challenge but as an acute threat that can arise suddenly and with devastating <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/oil-and-gas-production-linked-to-77-billion-in-annual-health-care-costs/">health impacts</a>. </p>



<p>The researchers found that over 50% of the deaths attributable to short-term PM2.5 exposure occur in Eastern Asia, presenting a significant public health challenge.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-greatest-mortality-burden-nbsp">The greatest mortality burden&nbsp;</h2>



<p>Asia, as the study indicates, bears the brunt of the mortality burden, with approximately 65.2% of global deaths due to short-term PM2.5 exposure. Africa follows with 17.0%, Europe with 12.1%, the Americas with 5.6%, and Oceania with a minimal 0.1%.&nbsp;</p>



<p>These statistics underscore a disproportionate impact on Asia and Africa, emphasizing the need for targeted interventions in these regions.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-public-health-interventions-needed-in-urban-areas">Public health interventions needed in urban areas</h2>



<p>The experts also determined that more than one fifth (22.74%) of the short-term exposure-related deaths occurred in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-does-nature-affect-human-health-in-urban-areas/">urban areas</a>. This underscores the lethal synergy of high population densities and air pollution spikes.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Cities and towns, often scenes of dramatic pollution episodes due to landscape fires, dust storms, or industrial emissions, emerge as critical areas for public health interventions.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-fire-related-air-pollution">Fire-related air pollution</h2>



<p>The team also pinpointed the specific challenges that are faced by different regions. For example, while most areas in Australia experienced a slight decrease in the number of deaths attributable to short-term <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/fine-particle-pollution-may-cause-children-to-develop-asthma/">PM2.5 exposure</a>, the fraction of deaths attributable to such exposure has actually increased.</p>



<p>This is potentially due to the rising frequency and intensity of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/australian-bushfires-triggered-rare-multi-year-la-nina/">bushfire events</a>, like those experienced during the "Black Summer" of 2019-20.</p>



<p>Professor Guo said these megafires were estimated to have led to 429 smoke-related premature deaths and 3,230 hospital admissions as a result of acute and persistent exposure to extremely high levels of bushfire-related air pollution. </p>



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



<p>To mitigate the acute health damages of high PM2.5 concentrations, there is a need for targeted interventions. These could include air-pollution warning systems, community evacuation plans, and public health initiatives designed to minimize exposure during pollution spikes.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Such strategies not only acknowledge the immediate dangers posed by high pollution levels but also represent a critical step toward safeguarding public health in the face of environmental challenges.</p>



<p>“Understanding the mortality burden associated with short-term exposure toPM2.5 in such areas is crucial for mitigating the negative effects of air pollution on the urban population," wrote the study authors.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The research is published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/S2542-5196(24)00003-2" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><em>The Lancet Planetary Health</em></a>.&nbsp;</p>



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Short-term pollution claims more than one million lives per year

Researchers from Monash University have unveiled startling data concerning the...

View,Of,Young,Apple,Orchard,With,Flowers,,Evening,,Spring,,Saarland

<p>A new study in England's green apple groves shows that insects like ladybugs and hoverflies help with apple pest control. Researchers discovered that planting wildflower borders around plants provides a natural home for beneficial insects. These helpful predators target pests that would otherwise damage the apples by threatening the crop's health and economic value.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-apple-pest-control-using-wildflowers">Apple pest control using wildflowers</h2>



<p>Researchers from the <a href="https://www.reading.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Reading</a> analyzed this innovative approach to pest management alongside five dessert apple orchards. Orchards adorned with flower margins saw a drastic reduction in fruit damage. </p>



<p>The study carefully chose wide, mature wildflower margins over five meters. The researchers mixed grasses and flowers to feed predatory insects all year. This long-term commitment to establishing diverse predatory <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/insects-thrive-in-restored-habitats-near-solar-energy-facilities/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">insect communities</a> has proven to be significantly effective. </p>



<p>In orchards with flower borders, pests affected only 48% of trees, compared to 80% in orchards without them. Flower margins helped control aphids and significantly cut fruit damage on infested trees. </p>



<p>Apples near flower borders were over a third less likely to be damaged, even at peak aphid times. This protection reached up to 50 meters into the orchard from the flower areas.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-simple-solution-for-sustainable-farming">A simple solution for sustainable farming</h3>



<p>In 2020, the UK produced 200,000 tons of dessert apples worth roughly $200 million. The study suggests flower margins could boost the harvest of premium apples by up to 2,420 kg per hectare (6.9%) by reducing pests. </p>



<p>The study emphasizes the effectiveness of simple conservation measures. Creating <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/mountain-wildflower-rising-temps/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">wildflower</a> areas along orchard borders has the potential to significantly reduce <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/pesticide-exposure-increases-the-risk-of-parkinsons-disease/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">pesticide</a> use. This approach benefits <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/pollution-prevents-nighttime-pollinators-from-finding-flowers/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">pollinators</a> and other helpful insects, promoting sustainable agricultural practices.</p>



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



<p>Charlotte Howard, the study's lead author from the University of Reading, emphasizes the broader benefits of this approach. "By looking after our creepy crawlies, we can take better care of our apples," Howard explains. </p>



<p>Planting flower margins is not just about enhancing apple quality; it represents a sustainable farming practice that reduces dependence on harmful insecticides, ultimately leading to healthier, more <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/scientists-turn-banana-peels-into-eco-friendly-packaging/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">eco-friendly</a> British produce in our supermarkets.</p>



<p>A consortium of researchers and agricultural stakeholders, including NIAB East Malling, <a href="https://www.cranfield.ac.uk">Cranfield University</a>, Syngenta, Avalon Produce, Worldwide Fruit, and the <a href="https://www.ceh.ac.uk">UK Centre for Ecology and Hydrology</a>, joined forces for this study. Their work aims for a sustainable and more productive agricultural future, not just in the UK, but globally.</p>



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



<p>As discussed above, flower borders are not just a way to add beauty and color to gardens; they also play a crucial role in attracting beneficial insects, providing habitat, and enhancing the overall biodiversity of an area. </p>



<p>Whether it's a small garden patch or a sprawling landscape, incorporating flower borders can transform a plain space into a vibrant and lively part of your outdoor living area.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Designing your lower border</h2>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Choosing the right plants</h3>



<p>When designing a flower border, selecting the right mix of plants is essential. Consider plants that bloom at different times of the year to ensure a continuous display of colors. Incorporate a variety of heights, textures, and colors to create a visually appealing border. Don't forget to include perennial plants for longevity and annuals for bold, season-long color.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Soil preparation and planting</h3>



<p>Preparing the soil is a critical step in establishing a successful flower border. Enrich the soil with compost to improve fertility and drainage. Arrange your plants while they are still in their pots to visualize how they will look together. Remember to consider their mature sizes to prevent overcrowding. Planting in staggered rows can create a fuller and more natural appearance.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Maintenance tips for flower borders</h2>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Watering and feeding</h3>



<p>Regular watering is key, especially during dry spells. However, be mindful not to overwater, as this can lead to root rot. Feeding your plants with a balanced fertilizer in the spring will support their growth and flowering.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Pruning and deadheading</h3>



<p>Pruning and deadheading spent flowers encourage plants to produce more blooms and maintain a tidy appearance. Some perennials may benefit from being cut back in late autumn or early spring, depending on their specific needs.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Mulching and weed control</h3>



<p>Applying a layer of mulch not only helps retain soil moisture but also suppresses weeds and adds a finished look to the border. Keep an eye out for weeds and remove them promptly to prevent them from competing with your flowers for nutrients and water.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Ecological impact of flower borders</h2>



<p>Beyond their aesthetic appeal, flower borders serve an important ecological function by supporting pollinators like bees, butterflies, and birds. Choosing native plants can enhance this benefit, as they are adapted to local conditions and provide the most suitable resources for native wildlife.</p>



<p>Flower borders are a dynamic element that brings life, color, and biodiversity to gardens. By carefully planning, planting, and maintaining your flower border, you can enjoy a beautiful and beneficial feature that enhances your outdoor space and supports the environment. </p>



<p>Whether you're a seasoned gardener or a beginner, the creation of a flower border is a rewarding project that yields long-term rewards.</p>



<p>The study was published in the journal <em><a href="https://besjournals.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/1365-2664.14598" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Journal of Applied Ecology</a></em>.</p>



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Apple trees surrounded by flowers are protected from pests

A new study in England's green apple groves shows that...

<p>In the high temperatures of Colorado's summer, the Rocky Mountains become a sought-after retreat for both humans and animals. This is particularly true for lizards and other small, tree-dwelling animals, which utilize <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/americas-forests-are-in-a-race-against-climate-change/">forests</a> as vital shelters from the heat.&nbsp;</p>



<p>A recent study led by a team of  researchers from the <a href="https://www.colorado.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Colorado Boulder</a> (CU) and <a href="https://english.tau.ac.il/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Tel Aviv University</a> in Israel outlines a concerning future for North American lizards in the face of deforestation and climate change. It is estimated that 84% of these reptiles could suffer negatively by the century's end, with a significant portion at risk of population decline.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-unique-vulnerability-of-lizards">Unique vulnerability of lizards</h2>



<p>The study highlights the unique vulnerability of lizards, as cold-blooded animals, to environmental temperature changes. Unlike <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/avian-influenza-h5n1-marine-mammals-spreading-worldwide/">mammals</a>, which have a variety of methods to regulate their body temperature, lizards are dependent on their surroundings to warm up or cool down.&nbsp;</p>



<p>"What's really interesting about lizards is that they just need to be able to move a short distance around the tree trunk to get to a very different climate and habitat environment," explained Keith Musselman, an assistant professor in the Department of Geography and CU Boulder’s Institute of Arctic and Alpine Research. “These microhabitats are particularly important when we think about how we modify our natural environment and make conservation decisions.”&nbsp;</p>



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



<p>Through computer simulations, the research team was able to demonstrate that while global warming could have potential benefits for lizards in colder or higher latitude areas by extending their daily active periods, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/global-deforestation-crisis-how-can-we-stop-massive-forest-losses/">deforestation</a> could negate these benefits by removing crucial sources of shade.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The findings suggest tree loss could reduce lizards' active time by an average of 34% by century's end, forcing these <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/study-reveals-secrets-of-the-evolution-of-prehistoric-reptiles/">reptiles</a> to seek alternative cooling shelters and significantly affecting those in warmer climates where future summers may be too intense for ground-level activity.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-accelerated-decline-of-lizards-nbsp">Accelerated decline of lizards&nbsp;</h2>



<p>The study projects that an estimated 18% of North American lizard populations could experience accelerated decline due to deforestation.&nbsp;</p>



<p>"Our work provides new insights into the mechanisms by which deforestation may cause population declines in the face of climate change," said Ofir Levy, a zoologist and Musselman’s collaborator at Tel Aviv. “The decline in lizards can lead to a cascading effect as they are an important part of almost every ecological system.”&nbsp;</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-alarming-pace-of-deforestation-nbsp">Alarming pace of deforestation&nbsp;</h2>



<p>Despite international commitments to stop deforestation, it continues at an alarming pace, with approximately 459 million hectares, or 12%, of the world’s tree cover lost from 2001 to 2022.&nbsp;</p>



<p>"Deforestation is a worldwide problem, and our conclusions can help decision-makers on other continents in designing conservation and habitat restoration programs that consider <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/study-reveals-the-far-reaching-climate-impacts-of-deforestation/">climate change</a>," said lead author Omer Zlotnick, a PhD student at the same university.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-lizards-depend-on-the-local-landscape-nbsp">Lizards depend on the local landscape&nbsp;</h2>



<p>The study also draws attention to the specific challenges faced by small <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/rainforest-animals-follow-the-same-daily-behavioral-patterns/">animals</a>, such as lizards, that cannot migrate long distances to escape the heat.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“Here in the Rocky Mountains, elevation provides an escape for animals that can travel longer distances, including us humans. On those summer days when it hits 100 degrees, many of us will go into the mountains. But small animals like lizards can’t travel far. They heavily depend on the refuge provided by the local landscape, including tree trunks," noted Musselman.</p>



<p>"The study highlighted the importance of understanding which elements in the environment can serve as refuges for other organisms on this planet."</p>



<p>The study is published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1038/s41558-024-01939-x" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><em>Nature Climate Change</em></a>.</p>



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Deforestation threatens the future of 8 in 10 lizards

In the high temperatures of Colorado's summer, the Rocky Mountains...

<p>A recent study led by Dr. Daniel Graeber from the UFZ has brought a paradigm shift in our understanding of nitrogen and phytoplankton growth in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/lakes-are-struggling-to-maintain-oxygen-as-temperatures-rise/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">lakes</a>, challenging the long-held belief that phosphorus is the sole nutrient limiting this growth. </p>



<p>Traditionally, lake management strategies worldwide have been focused on controlling phosphorus inputs to prevent eutrophication -- a process that leads to excessive algae growth and deteriorates water quality. </p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-phosphorus-the-long-standing-villain-in-lake-health">Phosphorus: The long-standing villain in lake health</h2>



<p>However, this approach has repeatedly fallen short in combating eutrophication, prompting scientists to question the existing model.</p>



<p><a href="https://www.ufz.de/index.php?en=43298" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Dr. Graeber</a> explains, "it was previously assumed that phytoplankton growth in lakes is mostly limited and driven by the availability of phosphorus. In this explanatory model, nitrogen plays no role. This is based on the fact that specific cyanobacteria in the water can bind the nitrogen contained in the air and introduce it into the lake. This would therefore preclude a long-term nitrogen deficiency in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/alarming-study-most-of-the-worlds-largest-lakes-are-quickly-losing-water/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">lakes</a>." </p>



<p>This discovery points to a more complex interaction between nutrients than previously thought, with both nitrogen and phosphorus influencing the growth of phytoplankton.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-new-perspective-on-lake-nutrients">New perspective on lake nutrients</h2>



<p>The study, which also involved limnologist Dr. Thomas A. Davidson from <a href="https://international.au.dk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Aarhus University</a>, analyzed long-term monitoring data from 159 shallow lakes across North America, Europe, and New Zealand. </p>



<p>"This model forms the basis for lake management worldwide, where the emphasis has been on controlling phosphorus inputs to counteract lake eutrophication," explains Dr. Davidson. </p>



<p>"Reducing phosphorus inputs repeatedly fails to prevent eutrophication. This therefore gave rise to the question of whether the water equation included yet another unknown," Davidson concluded.</p>



<p>Shallow lakes, which constitute about 89 percent of the world's <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/life-on-earth-may-have-first-sparked-in-shallow-soda-lakes/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">lakes</a>, provided a comprehensive dataset for examining the relationship between nutrient ratios and phytoplankton biomass, measured by the concentration of chlorophyll-a.</p>



<p>"We wanted to determine the long-term relationships between the ratio of the two nutrients and phytoplankton growth," explains Dr. Graeber. </p>



<p>"The idea for our study originated with several outliers in a prior study of the ecology of shallow lakes. In some of the lakes, we did not see a linear correspondence between the measured nutrient and a respective increased or decreased chlorophyll-a concentration," he said.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-surprising-impact-of-nitrogen-in-lake-ecosystems">Surprising impact of nitrogen in lake ecosystems</h2>



<p>The research revealed that in 60 percent of the studied <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/microplastics-contaminate-all-lakes-and-freshwater-environments-around-the-world/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">lakes</a>, both nitrogen and phosphorus were limiting factors for phytoplankton growth, a finding that significantly deviates from traditional limnological consensus.</p>



<p>The implications of this study are profound for the field of limnology and lake management practices. </p>



<p>"The relationships were so clear that I couldn't even believe it at first. They corresponded exactly to what was known from laboratory experiments -- this was truly astounding," says Graeber. </p>



<p>"The result withstood thorough testing of the statistics: The data were robust. Our results confirm the hypothesis that nitrogen is not a passive participant in lake ecology. And we were able to prove with a broad database for the first time that this clearly applies to lakes worldwide," Graeber continued.</p>



<p>This dual-nutrient limitation model not only challenges existing theories but also emphasizes the necessity of incorporating nitrogen into lake management strategies.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-integrating-nitrogen-into-lake-management-strategies">Integrating nitrogen into lake management strategies</h2>



<p>Dr. Graeber and his team urge for a reevaluation of lake management practices, suggesting a more comprehensive approach that considers the impacts of both nitrogen and phosphorus. </p>



<p>"We need a long-term investigation of the nutrient ratios to ensure the success of efficient and effective eutrophication management. This requires a greater focus on inputs from agriculture, which generally have a high nitrogen content," Graeber recommends.</p>



<p>In summary, the study led by Dr. Daniel Graeber and his team marks a significant turning point in our understanding of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-some-lakes-resist-the-heat-of-atmospheric-warming/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">lake ecosystems</a>. They demonstrated that both nitrogen and phosphorus play critical roles in phytoplankton growth and, consequently, in the eutrophication process. </p>



<p>This revelation challenges the traditional phosphorus-centric approach to lake management and provides new recommendations for research and policy-making that encompass a more holistic view of nutrient impacts. </p>



<p>By advocating for the inclusion of nitrogen in management strategies, this finding paves the way for more effective and sustainable solutions to combat eutrophication, ensuring the long-term health and balance of lake ecosystems worldwide.</p>



<p>The full study was published in the journal <em><a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41467-024-45115-3" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature Communications</a></em>.</p>



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Nitrogen is an overlooked component of lake ecosystems

A recent study led by Dr. Daniel Graeber from the...

<p>Over the last quarter century, the Arctic has witnessed a dramatic reduction in summer sea ice, shrinking by more than one million square kilometers. This transformation has left extensive parts of the Arctic Ocean <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ice-free-arctic-summers-could-be-the-new-normal-by-2030/">ice-free</a> during the summer months with a significant increase in sunlight exposure. </p>



<p>This phenomenon has drawn the attention of the scientific community worldwide, who are keenly observing its impact on sunlight penetration and the resultant effects on the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/marine-ecosystems-survive-extinctions/">marine ecosystems</a> of the far north.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-increased-sunlight-availability-on-the-arctic-seafloor">Increased sunlight availability on the Arctic seafloor</h2>



<p>Karl Attard, a prominent marine scientist and assistant professor in the Department of Biology at the <a href="https://www.sdu.dk/en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Southern Denmark</a>, is at the forefront of a global research initiative that delves into the implications of increased sunlight availability on the photosynthetic activity of the Arctic seafloor, a region less studied in this context. </p>



<p>The team's research places a spotlight on the Arctic Ocean's extensive shelf regions. These areas of the seafloor, which are relatively shallow and seldom exceed depths of 200 meters, account for about half the Arctic Ocean's surface area. This makes them particularly intriguing for studying how seafloor ecosystems adjust as sea ice continues to recede.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-photosynthetic-activity-nbsp">Photosynthetic activity&nbsp;</h2>



<p>Primary producers like microalgae, seaweeds, and seagrasses, which are capable of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/scientists-have-finally-decoded-the-process-of-photosynthesis/">photosynthesis</a>, rely on sunlight along with water, carbon dioxide, and nutrients. These organisms are foundational to the ocean's food web, underpinning commercially vital fisheries and supporting large predators such as polar bears.</p>



<p>Given the expanding areas of the seafloor now exposed to sunlight, one might intuitively expect an increase in the abundance of these primary producers. However, the experts reached a counterintuitive result.&nbsp;</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-sunlight-reaching-the-arctic-seafloor-nbsp">Sunlight reaching the Arctic seafloor&nbsp;</h2>



<p>“It might seem reasonable to assume that the abundance of primary producers on the seafloor in the shallower regions of the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/the-arctic-ocean-has-been-warming-for-more-than-100-years/">Arctic Ocean</a> would increase as more sunlight reaches the bottom," noted Attard.</p>



<p>"In fact, our research suggests that since 2003, the seafloor area exposed to sunlight has been increasing rapidly at around 47,000 square kilometers per year.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Curiously, however, we do not see an increase in the total amount of sunlight reaching the Arctic seafloor."</p>



<p>This observation, based on two decades of satellite data, indicates that despite the expanded ice-free areas, there isn't a corresponding increase in sunlight reaching the seafloor.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-decrease-in-water-transparency-nbsp">Decrease in water transparency&nbsp;</h2>



<p>The study reveals that water transparency in many parts of the Arctic Ocean has decreased, impeding sunlight from penetrating to the seafloor.&nbsp;</p>



<p><a href="https://www.earth.com/news/air-pollution-reduces-sunlight/">Sunlight</a> that enters the ice-free ocean is rapidly absorbed by phytoplankton, sediments, and dissolved substances, thus limiting its reach to the ocean floor. Despite these regions now being ice-free and receiving sunlight at the surface, the models predict variable impacts on primary production across different areas.</p>



<p>The decline in water clarity is attributed to the influx of river water, carrying sediments from distant regions like Mongolia or central North America, into the Arctic Ocean. These sediments, along with dissolved organic molecules, cloud the water, reducing sunlight penetration.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-sunlight-availability-and-primary-production">Sunlight availability and primary production</h2>



<p>The researchers' models reveal regional disparities in biomass production on the newly exposed ocean floor, with some areas experiencing an increase in primary production while others not.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“The question then arises: why does sunlight availability and primary production increase in some areas while diminishing in others?” Attard said. “Unfortunately, our models do not provide a clear answer as to what specifically is driving this change, and obtaining this information necessitates investigating individual regions and validating our models with more observational data."</p>



<p>“The latest models suggest that seaweeds and eelgrass will establish themselves on the shallow coastal seafloor and will expand into the Arctic Ocean as the ice further diminishes and water temperature increases. Here too, more observations are needed to test the uncertainties in the models,” he added.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-complex-interactions-nbsp">Complex interactions&nbsp;</h2>



<p>This study underscores the complex interplay between climate change, sunlight availability, and primary production in the Arctic Ocean. As the Arctic continues to warm, the influx of species from lower latitudes might lead to a more productive marine environment than currently exists, albeit at the expense of the Arctic's unique character.&nbsp;</p>



<p>"Our study suggests that the impacts of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/tracking-arctic-climate-change-is-much-more-difficult-since-russia-invaded-ukraine/">climate change</a> on sunlight availability and primary production in the Arctic Ocean are complex. Additionally, as the Arctic Ocean continues to warm, we may witness more species migrating from lower latitudes, potentially leading to a more productive marine environment than what exists today - at the cost of losing what is special for the Arctic,” Attard concluded.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The study is published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1073/pnas.2303366121" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><em>Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences</em></a><em>.</em></p>



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



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Less ice and more sunlight will drastically alter the Arctic Ocean

Over the last quarter century, the Arctic has witnessed a...

<p>In the face of escalating climate challenges, new research offers fresh insights into the complex relationship between drought, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/twenty-years-of-air-quality-improvement-erased-by-wildfires/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">wildfires</a>, and invasive species within coastal sage scrub ecosystems. </p>



<p>Published in the journal <em>Ecology</em>, this study from the University of California, Irvine (<a href="https://uci.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">UCI</a>) highlights the delicate balance required to manage and protect these critical environments.</p>



<p>Led by Dr. Sarah Kimball, Director of the Center for Environmental Biology at UCI, the team focused on the intricate dynamics that govern ecosystem health. </p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-wildfires-as-a-catalyst-for-invasive-species">Wildfires as a catalyst for invasive species</h2>



<p>Conducted at the <a href="https://lomaridge.bio.uci.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Loma Ridge Global Change Experiment</a>, they explored how extended periods of drought intensify wildfire severity and clear the way for invasive species to dominate, disrupting native plant communities and altering the landscape dramatically.</p>



<p>Central to the study's findings is the discovery that drought conditions, by reducing wildfire severity, inadvertently benefit non-native grasses. </p>



<p>These invasive species flourish, potentially transforming the ecosystem and diminishing the abundance and diversity of native plants. </p>



<p>Such shifts are critical, as they affect not only the ecological balance but also the resilience of ecosystems to future environmental stresses.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-new-direction-for-wildfire-management">New direction for wildfire management</h2>



<p>The implications of this research extend far beyond the academic realm, offering vital cues for ecosystem management strategies. The study advocates for a nuanced approach to managing <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/fear-and-anxiety-the-mental-health-impacts-of-wildfires/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">wildfire</a> frequencies and controlling invasive species in the aftermath of fires. </p>



<p>Interestingly, it advises against the use of controlled burns in coastal sage scrub systems -- a common management practice in other ecosystems -- due to their potential to encourage the spread of invasive species.</p>



<p>Dr. Kimball, the study's corresponding author, underscores the significance of experimental research in understanding these ecological interactions. </p>



<p>"This study is unique in that replicate experimental plots were subjected to several years of different precipitation regimes prior to the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/wildfire-smoke-is-an-underestimated-threat-to-public-health/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">wildfire</a>, allowing an opportunity to test how a range of pre-fire weather conditions influenced fire severity and resulting plant community composition," she explains.</p>



<p>Furthermore, Kimball emphasizes the critical findings regarding the interaction between invasive species and low-severity wildfires, cautioning against the use of control burns in these environments. </p>



<p>"We found feedbacks between invasive species and low-severity <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ripple-effects-wildfires-reshape-aquatic-ecosystems/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">wildfire</a>, indicating that control burns should not be conducted in this system," Kimball concluded.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-preserving-our-natural-world">Preserving our natural world</h2>



<p>This research is particularly relevant as wildfires increasingly affect communities, underscoring the importance of understanding the factors that influence their severity. </p>



<p>It calls for a reassessment of traditional <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/low-intensity-fires-reduce-the-risk-of-catastrophic-wildfires-by-60-percent/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">wildfire</a> management practices and highlights the urgent need to address climate change to preserve natural ecosystems.</p>



<p>In summary, the UCI's important study illuminates the intricate interdependencies between drought, wildfires, and invasive species. The scientists uncovered critical insights for the sustainable management of coastal sage scrub ecosystems. </p>



<p>By demonstrating how prolonged drought conditions facilitate the spread of invasive species through the modulation of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/air-pollution-from-farming-and-wildfires-is-more-likely-to-cause-dementia/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">wildfire severity</a>, this research emphasizes the necessity of reevaluating traditional fire management practices and adopting a more nuanced approach to ecosystem conservation. </p>



<p>Dr. Sarah Kimball and her team's findings advance our understanding of these complex ecological dynamics and serve as a crucial call to action. Communities must integrate climate change considerations into their strategies for preserving natural ecosystems and safeguarding biodiversity for future generations.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-more-about-invasive-species-and-wildfires">More about invasive species and wildfires</h2>



<p>As discussed above, invasive species pose a significant threat to global biodiversity, ecosystems, and economies. These non-native plants, animals, and microorganisms, when introduced to new environments, can disrupt the natural balance, leading to severe environmental and economic consequences.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-understanding-invasive-species">Understanding invasive species</h3>



<p>Invasive species are organisms that are introduced, either accidentally or deliberately, into a region where they are not native. Without their natural predators and competitors, these species can spread uncontrollably, outcompeting native species for resources such as food and habitat. </p>



<p>The introduction of invasive species often results from human activities, including global trade, travel, and agriculture, which inadvertently transport and introduce organisms to new areas.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-wreaking-ecological-havoc">Wreaking ecological havoc</h3>



<p>The ecological impact of invasive species is profound and far-reaching. They can alter habitat structures, nutrient cycling, and hydrology, leading to the decline or extinction of native species. Invasive species can also act as vectors for diseases, affecting both wildlife and human health. </p>



<p>Their presence can lead to reduced biodiversity, changing the composition and function of ecosystems. The economic repercussions are equally significant, with invasive species costing billions of dollars annually in control efforts and lost agricultural productivity.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-strategies-for-management-and-control">Strategies for management and control</h3>



<p>Managing invasive species requires a multi-faceted approach that includes prevention, early detection, rapid response, and long-term control measures. </p>



<p>Prevention is the most cost-effective strategy, involving stringent biosecurity measures to prevent the introduction of invasive species. Early detection and rapid response are critical for containing and eradicating invasives before they become established. </p>



<p>This approach often involves public awareness campaigns and citizen science initiatives to report sightings of invasive species. </p>



<p>For established invasions, control measures can include mechanical removal, chemical treatments, and biological control using natural predators or pathogens.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-role-of-community-and-government">Role of community and government</h3>



<p>Effective management of invasive species demands a collaborative effort that spans local, national, and international levels. Governments must implement and enforce regulations that limit the spread of invasive species, such as quarantine laws and restrictions on the trade of known invasives. </p>



<p>Community involvement is equally crucial, as informed and engaged citizens can play a significant role in detecting and reporting invasive species. Education and outreach programs can raise awareness about the impacts of invasive species and the importance of biosecurity measures.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-keeping-invasive-species-away-after-wildfires">Keeping invasive species away after wildfires</h3>



<p>The threat posed by invasive species is urgent and requires immediate action. By understanding the causes and impacts of these unwanted invaders, we can implement effective strategies to prevent their spread and mitigate their effects. </p>



<p>It is imperative that governments, communities, and individuals work together to address this environmental challenge. </p>



<p>Through collaborative efforts and strong management practices, we can protect our ecosystems and preserve biodiversity for future generations. </p>



<p>The fight against invasive species is not just a conservation issue but a necessity for maintaining the health of our planet and the well-being of all its inhabitants.</p>



<p>The full study was published in the journal <em><a href="https://esajournals.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/ecy.4265">Ecology</a></em>.</p>



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Invasive species use wildfires and drought as an opening to move in

In the face of escalating climate challenges, new research offers...

<p>Today marks a significant milestone in environmental protection and climate science with the <a href="https://www.spacex.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">launch</a> of MethaneSAT, a pioneering satellite mission designed to tackle methane <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/u-s-finalizes-ambitious-rule-to-slash-methane-emissions/">emissions</a>. </p>



<p>Methane is one of the most potent greenhouse gases. Reducing methane emissions is increasingly viewed as a crucial strategy for slowing global warming.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-role-of-methanesat-nbsp">The role of MethaneSAT&nbsp;</h2>



<p>Developed by a subsidiary of the <a href="https://www.edf.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Environmental Defense Fund</a> (EDF), a leading environmental non-profit organization, MethaneSAT is set to revolutionize the way we identify, measure, and reduce methane emissions, particularly from the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/oil-and-gas-production-linked-to-77-billion-in-annual-health-care-costs/">oil and gas industry</a> - the world’s largest industrial methane emitter.</p>



<p>Scheduled for launch just after 2:00pm Pacific Time aboard a SpaceX Falcon9 rocket, MethaneSAT's mission is groundbreaking in its scope and potential impact. This satellite is unique in its ability to see and quantify total methane emissions over wide areas that other satellites cannot, thereby identifying large emitters in previously overlooked locations.&nbsp;</p>



<p>MethaneSAT will empower companies, regulators, and various stakeholders - including citizens, governments, investors, and gas importers - with free access to emissions data. This unprecedented level of transparency will improve accountability and facilitate faster reductions in methane emissions.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-single-fastest-way-to-slow-global-warming">Single fastest way to slow global warming</h2>



<p>“Cutting methane pollution from fossil fuel operations, agriculture and other sectors is the single fastest way to slow the rate of warming as we continue to decarbonize our energy systems,” said EDF President Fred Krupp.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“To do that requires comprehensive data on this pollution on a global scale. MethaneSAT will show us the full scope of the opportunity by tracking emissions to their source.”</p>



<p>MethaneSAT is a direct result of EDF's long-standing commitment to methane science and solutions, a journey that began over a decade ago and was highlighted in Krupp's 2018 TED Talk as part of the TED Audacious Project.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-methanesat-s-remarkable-capabilities-nbsp">MethaneSAT's remarkable capabilities&nbsp;</h2>



<p>The satellite's capabilities are remarkable. MethaneSAT can circle the Earth 15 times a day, detecting changes in methane concentrations as small as three parts per billion. Its high sensitivity, resolution, and wide field of view are designed to capture the complete picture of methane emissions.</p>



<p>“MethaneSAT’s superpower is the ability to precisely measure methane levels with high resolution over wide areas, including smaller, diffuse sources that account for most emissions in many regions,” said Steven Hamburg, EDF Chief Scientist and MethaneSAT project leader. “Knowing how much methane is coming from where and how the rates are changing is essential.”</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-methanesat-is-a-collaborative-victory">MethaneSAT is a collaborative victory</h2>



<p>Beyond its scientific and environmental significance, MethaneSAT represents a collaborative victory, made possible by the support of EDF donors and partnerships, notably with the Government of New Zealand. Major contributors include the Bezos Earth Fund, Arnold Ventures, the Robertson Foundation, and the TED Audacious Project.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Dr. Kelly Levin from the Bezos Earth Fund hailed MethaneSAT as a game-changer in methane detection, praising its potential to enhance scientific understanding and enforce accountability.</p>



<p>“Methane emissions have been overlooked and hard to detect for far too long,” said Dr. Levin. “MethaneSAT changes the equation, putting science and data front and center. From the sky, it can see what others can’t, helping good actors and holding bad actors accountable. The Bezos Earth Fund is proud to be a partner in this adventure.”</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-holding-companies-and-governments-accountable-nbsp">Holding companies and governments accountable&nbsp;</h2>



<p>The launch of MethaneSAT comes at a critical time when global momentum is building for more stringent methane management.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The satellite will bolster recent initiatives aimed at holding companies and governments more accountable for their methane emissions, including efforts by Bloomberg Philanthropies, the International Energy Agency, RMI, and the UN Environment Programme's International Methane Emission Observatory.&nbsp;</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-importance-of-measurable-data">The importance of measurable data</h2>



<p>Michael R. Bloomberg, UN Secretary-General's Special Envoy on Climate Ambition and Solutions and Founder of Bloomberg LP and Bloomberg Philanthropies, highlighted the importance of measurable data in tackling methane emissions.</p>



<p>“You can’t manage what you can’t measure, and that’s certainly true when it comes to cutting methane, one of the biggest drivers of climate change,” said Bloomberg.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“Data from this satellite will help us to better measure methane emissions and target their sources, bringing more transparency to the problem, giving companies and investors the information they need to take action, and empowering the public to hold people accountable.”</p>



<p>MethaneSAT's mission aligns with international commitments, such as the Global Methane Pledge to reduce methane emissions by at least 30% from 2020 levels by 2030. It also supports the Oil &amp; Gas Decarbonization Charter announced at COP28, aiming to virtually eliminate methane emissions and routine flaring.&nbsp;</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-why-is-it-so-urgent-to-tackle-methane-emissions">Why is it so urgent to tackle methane emissions?</h2>



<p>Methane (CH4) is a potent greenhouse gas, second only to carbon dioxide (CO2) in its impact on climate change. It is composed of one carbon atom and four hydrogen atoms. Methane is significant for several reasons:</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-potency">Potency</h3>



<p>Methane is much more effective than CO2 at trapping heat in the atmosphere, making it a highly potent <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ponds-release-more-greenhouse-gases-than-they-store/">greenhouse gas</a>. Over a 20-year period, its global warming potential is over 80 times that of CO2, though it is less over longer periods due to its shorter atmospheric lifetime.</p>



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



<p>Major sources of methane emissions include natural processes and human activities. Natural sources include wetlands, termites, and the oceans.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Human-related sources are more diverse, including the production and transport of coal, oil, and natural gas (due to leaks and venting), livestock and other agricultural practices (especially from the digestive processes of ruminant animals), landfills, and waste treatment.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-atmospheric-life">Atmospheric life</h3>



<p>Methane has a shorter lifetime in the atmosphere compared to CO2, about 12 years, but it is much more efficient at trapping radiation, making its short-term effects on climate change significant.</p>



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



<p>Methane contributes to the greenhouse effect. Its increase in the atmosphere is responsible for about one-fifth of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/formal-agreement-needed-to-define-the-current-level-of-global-warming/">global warming</a>. Managing methane emissions is considered a critical lever for mitigating climate change, especially in the short term, as reducing methane emissions can have a rapid effect on atmospheric warming potential.</p>



<p>To watch the live launch of MethaneSAT, visit <a href="https://www.spacex.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">https://www.spacex.com/</a>.</p>



<p>Image Credit: BAE Systems&nbsp;</p>



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Today's MethaneSAT launch represents a new era in climate action

Today marks a significant milestone in environmental protection and climate...

<p>In a world increasingly concerned with the effects of climate change, researchers are tirelessly working to understand the various factors that contribute to our planet's warming. Among these, methane - a potent greenhouse gas - has come under scrutiny for its role in accelerating climate change. </p>



<p>A recent discovery by researchers at the <a href="https://www.ku.dk/">University of Copenhagen</a> has shed new light on sources of methane production, challenging existing beliefs and prompting a reevaluation of our understanding of carbon cycling in glaciated regions.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-unexpected-discovery-in-canadian-glaciers">Unexpected discovery in Canadian glaciers</h2>



<p>Sarah Elise Sapper, a PhD student in the University of Copenhagen’s Department of Geosciences and Natural Resource Management, embarked on her first field expedition to the rugged terrains of northwestern Canada. </p>



<p>Amidst the steep Yukon mountainsides, Sapper and her team made a surprising discovery in the meltwater of three Canadian mountain glaciers. Contrary to the prevailing belief that glacial methane emissions necessitate large ice masses, the measurements revealed methane concentrations up to 250 times higher than those found in our atmosphere. </p>



<p>"We expected to find low values in the meltwater because it is believed that glacial methane emissions require larger ice masses such as vast ice sheets. But the result was quite the opposite," explained Sapper.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-previously-unknown-sources-of-methane-production">Previously unknown sources of methane production </h2>



<p>This unexpected finding indicates the presence of previously unknown sources of methane beneath the ice, suggesting that methane production and release under glaciers may be more widespread than previously thought. </p>



<p>Professor Jesper Riis Christiansen, co-author of the research article, highlights the significance of this discovery: "When we suddenly see that even mountain glaciers, which are small in comparison with an ice sheet, are able to form and emit methane, it expands our basic understanding of carbon cycling in extreme environments on the planet."</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-new-perspective-on-methane-production">New perspective on methane production </h2>



<p>The research team hypothesizes that methane production is biological, occurring when microorganisms decompose organic carbon sources in the absence of oxygen. This challenges the conventional view that such processes could only occur under large ice masses like the Greenland Ice Sheet. </p>



<p>The meltwater, initially rich in oxygen, somehow loses all its oxygen as it travels to the bottom of the glacier, creating anoxic conditions conducive to methane production by microbes.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-an-uncertain-climate-future">An uncertain climate future</h2>



<p>These findings not only introduce new variables into the equation of global methane emissions but also underscore the complexity of predicting the climate's future. </p>



<p>Although the contribution of methane from glaciated regions to overall atmospheric methane levels is not yet causing concern, Jesper Riis Christiansen urges vigilance. </p>



<p>"There's too much that we don't know, and the melting glaciers expose unknown environments that have remained hidden for thousands of years. In reality, no one knows how emissions will behave," said Christiansen.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-unraveling-the-mysteries-of-methane">Unraveling the mysteries of methane </h2>



<p>This discovery opens up new avenues for research, aiming to better understand methane's behavior beneath glaciers and its implications for global warming. It may also inform strategies to mitigate methane emissions, such as promoting the oxidation of methane in the atmosphere.</p>



<p>Sapper's pioneering expedition, supported by EU funds through the INTERACT network, is a testament to the value of independent fieldwork in advancing our understanding of environmental science. Her work not only contributes to the body of knowledge on methane emissions but also serves as an inspiration for other young researchers to pursue their own explorations.</p>



<p>As the scientific community continues to unravel the mysteries of methane production and its role in climate change, it's clear that the findings from these mountain glaciers are just the beginning. </p>



<p>With each discovery, we edge closer to a more comprehensive understanding of our planet's complex and interwoven systems, holding the promise of developing more effective strategies to combat climate change.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-more-about-methane-production-and-climate-change">More about methane production and climate change</h2>



<p>As discussed above, methane (CH4) stands as a potent greenhouse gas, contributing significantly to global warming. Unlike carbon dioxide (CO2), which often garners more attention, methane is far more effective at trapping heat in the atmosphere, despite its relatively shorter atmospheric lifetime. </p>



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



<h4 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-natural-sources">Natural Sources</h4>



<p>Methane production occurs both naturally and through human activities. Wetlands are the largest natural source, where bacteria produce methane during the decomposition of organic material in oxygen-free environments. </p>



<p>Other natural sources include termites, oceans, and hydrates -- methane trapped in icy structures under the ocean floor and permafrost.</p>



<h4 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-anthropogenic-sources">Anthropogenic Sources</h4>



<p>Human activities have significantly increased methane emissions. The primary sources include:</p>



<ul>
<li>Agriculture: Livestock, especially ruminants such as cows and sheep, produce methane during digestion through a process known as enteric fermentation. Rice paddies also emit methane due to the anaerobic conditions of waterlogged fields.<br></li>



<li>Fossil Fuel Sector: Methane leaks during the extraction, processing, and transportation of oil and natural gas. Coal mines are also notable sources.<br></li>



<li>Waste Management: Landfills produce methane as organic waste decomposes anaerobically.</li>
</ul>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-methane-s-role-in-climate-change">Methane's role in climate change</h3>



<p>Methane is over 25 times more effective than CO2 at trapping heat in the atmosphere over a 100-year period. Its release from both natural and anthropogenic sources has a significant impact on global warming. </p>



<p>Methane's high global warming potential is particularly concerning given the current rates of emission and the push towards natural gas as a "cleaner" energy source.</p>



<p>The interaction between methane and other atmospheric components can also amplify warming. For instance, methane contributes to the formation of ground-level ozone, a potent greenhouse gas and component of smog, further exacerbating climate change impacts.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-mitigation-efforts">Mitigation efforts</h3>



<p>Reducing methane emissions is crucial in the fight against climate change. Efforts include:</p>



<ul>
<li>Agricultural Practices: Adopting diets that reduce the reliance on ruminant meat, improving livestock feed to reduce enteric fermentation, and employing rice paddies management techniques that minimize methane production.<br></li>



<li>Energy Sector Reforms: Implementing technologies to capture methane leaks from oil and natural gas infrastructure, and reducing reliance on fossil fuels in favor of renewable energy sources.<br></li>



<li>Waste Management Solutions: Capturing methane from landfills and wastewater treatment plants to use as a biogas, and promoting recycling and composting to reduce the amount of organic waste in landfills.</li>
</ul>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-implications-and-future-study">Implications and future study</h3>



<p>In summary, methane production plays a significant role in global warming, with its impact felt across natural ecosystems and human societies. </p>



<p>Addressing methane emissions is a critical step towards mitigating climate change, requiring coordinated efforts across sectors and countries. </p>



<p>By understanding methane's sources and impacts, societies can implement effective strategies to reduce emissions and protect the planet for future generations.</p>



<p>The full study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/15230430.2023.2284456"><em>Arctic Antarctic and Alpine Research</em></a>.</p>



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New sources of global methane gas production discovered

In a world increasingly concerned with the effects of climate...

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



<p>—–</p>



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<p>—–</p>

Traffic fumes may trigger Alzheimer's

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



<p>—–</p>



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<p>—–</p>

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

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



<p>—–</p>



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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>



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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<p>—–</p>

Greenland's ground rises while coasts worldwide face higher seas

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

AI agent training boosts mental health and profits

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Revolutionizing agriculture through microbiome engineering

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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The environmental problem we actually solved

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

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

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https://youtu.be/XYgiPzmNBTU?si=eFYY7gPHU1JznLvU
</div></figure>



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Wildlife tunnels save millions of amphibians

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Is chocolate the next nutritional powerhouse?

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Designing crops that can beat the heat

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Remote sensing will revolutionize the way we monitor trees

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Lesotho: Africa's "Kingdom in the Sky"

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Wetlands are a major source of methane emissions

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

The rapid retreat of the Columbia Glacier

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

2022 illustrated the consequences of a warming climate

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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Satellites reveal how Earth's systems are interconnected

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Tiger sharks are shifting poleward as temperatures rise

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Melt ponds on the Greenland Ice Sheet

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Tracking changes in Earth's water cycle

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Mysterious "spoke season" captured on Saturn

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