<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>



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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>Although fog is a common weather phenomenon, it is also quite mysterious. Fog has long been a subject of intrigue and concern, particularly in areas of complex terrain like mountainous regions.&nbsp;</p>



<p>It is a major hazard to transportation, yet meteorologists struggle to predict fog formation with the accuracy they've achieved for other weather events.&nbsp;</p>



<p>A recent study from the <a href="https://www.utah.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Utah</a>, led by Professor Zhaoxia Pu, is shedding new light on this issue. This research, part of the Cold Fog Amongst Complex Terrain (CFACT) project, aims to deepen our understanding of fog formation, with the goal of improving <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/extreme-weather-is-becoming-more-difficult-to-predict/">forecasting</a> methods.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-challenge-of-predicting-fog">The challenge of predicting fog</h2>



<p>Fog forms close to the ground, influenced by air temperature, humidity, and the terrain itself. Yet, its prediction remains a challenge.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The physical processes that result in fog are complex, making it harder to forecast than precipitation, wind, and other stormy events.</p>



<p>“Our understanding is limited. In order to accurately forecast fog we should better understand the process that controls fog formation,” said Professor Pu.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-cfact-project">The CFACT project</h2>



<p>The CFACT project, funded by a $1.17 million grant from the National Science Foundation, involves a team from the University of Utah's Department of Atmospheric Sciences, including Gannet Hallar and Sebastian Hoch, Eric Pardyjak from the Department of Mechanical Engineering, scientists from the National Center for Atmospheric Research (NCAR), and Dr. Ismail Gultepe from Ontario Tech University, Canada.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The project's primary objective is to investigate the life cycle of cold fog in mountain valleys, particularly in the Heber Valley, located about 50 miles southeast of Salt Lake City.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-dangers-of-fog">The dangers of fog</h2>



<p>Improving fog forecasting is particularly important for public safety. Fog significantly reduces visibility, posing dangers to all forms of transportation. </p>



<p>It is the second leading cause of aircraft accidents after high winds and is responsible for numerous automobile crashes and disruptions in ferry operations.&nbsp;Between 1995 and 2004, fog-related accidents in the United States resulted in 13,720 deaths. </p>



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



<p>The researchers used the Numerical Weather Prediction (NWP) model, which processes meteorological observations for weather predictions.</p>



<p>“Fog involves a lot of physics processes so it requires a computer model that can better represent all these processes,” explained Professor Pu.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“Because fog is clouds near the ground, it requires a high-resolution model to resolve it, so we need models at a very fine scale, which are computationally very expensive. The current models (relatively coarser in resolution) are not capable of resolving the fog processes, and we need to improve the models for better fog prediction.”</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-heber-valley-nbsp">The Heber Valley&nbsp;</h2>



<p>The Heber Valley, with its typical mountain valley topography, served as the ideal location for this research. Over seven weeks in the winter of 2022, the team collected data from two major stations equipped with 100-foot towers and various instruments.&nbsp;</p>



<p>These stations, located near Deer Creek Reservoir and along the Provo River, gathered data on humidity, wind, visibility, temperature, snow depths, and soil moisture. Multiple satellite sites also contributed to the data collection.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-intensive-observation-periods-nbsp">Intensive observation periods&nbsp;</h2>



<p>The team conducted nine intensive observation periods (IOPs) over 24-hour periods. These IOPs included high-frequency radiosonde profiles, tethered balloon profiles, remotely sensed thermodynamic and wind profiles, surface meteorological observations, and microphysical and aerosol measurements.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The variety of non-fog IOPs provided insights into near-surface inversion, ice crystal formation, moisture advection and transportation, and stable boundary layers over complex terrain.</p>



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



<p>This comprehensive study is ongoing, but it has already begun to unravel the complexities of fog formation in mountain valleys. By understanding the meteorological conditions and physical processes involved, the researchers hope to improve fog prediction models.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Such advancements would not only contribute to scientific knowledge but also significantly enhance public safety by reducing the risks associated with this elusive weather phenomenon.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-more-about-the-dangers-of-fog">More about the dangers of fog</h2>



<p>Fog, although a natural and often visually striking phenomenon, poses several significant dangers, particularly in the context of transportation and outdoor activities. Here are some of the key risks associated with fog:</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-reduced-visibility">Reduced visibility</h3>



<p>The most immediate danger of fog is the significant reduction in visibility. This can be especially hazardous for drivers, pilots, and mariners, as it becomes difficult to see other vehicles, obstacles, or navigational markers. Reduced visibility increases the risk of accidents and collisions.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-transportation-accidents">Transportation accidents</h3>



<p>Due to decreased visibility, fog is a major factor in transportation accidents. It can lead to multi-vehicle pile-ups on roads and highways.&nbsp;</p>



<p>In aviation, fog can disrupt airport operations, leading to flight delays, diversions, or accidents during takeoff and landing. In maritime contexts, fog can cause collisions between ships or with shore installations.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-disorientation-and-confusion">Disorientation and confusion</h3>



<p>In outdoor settings, especially in unfamiliar terrain, fog can cause disorientation. Hikers, for instance, might lose their sense of direction.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-health-issues">Health issues</h3>



<p>Fog may exacerbate health issues, especially in urban areas where it traps pollutants and reduces air quality. This is particularly risky for individuals with respiratory conditions like asthma or chronic bronchitis.</p>



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



<p>Dense fog may have a significant economic impact due to delayed transportation services. It can disrupt supply chains, lead to flight and shipping cancellations or delays, and affect businesses dependent on timely transportation.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-agricultural-impact">Agricultural impact</h3>



<p>In some cases, fog impacts agriculture. Persistent fog can deprive plants of sunlight, affecting their growth. It can also contribute to the spread of fungal diseases in certain crops.</p>



<p>The study is published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1175/BAMS-D-22-0030.1" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><em>Bulletin of the American Meteorological Society</em></a>. </p>



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Scientists are unraveling the mysteries of fog formation

Although fog is a common weather phenomenon, it is also...

Angel,Oak,Tree,In,John’s,Island,South,Carolina

<p>At the forefront of environmental discussions at Michigan State University, <a href="https://directory.natsci.msu.edu/Directory/Profiles/Person/100427" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Tom Sharkey</a>, a University Distinguished Professor at the <a href="https://plantresilience.msu.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Plant Resilience Institute</a>, posed a provocative question: </p>



<p>“Should we cut down all the oak trees?” </p>



<p>While he wasn't advocating for a literal deforestation of oak trees, this theoretical question emerges from his team’s recent discoveries about the role of trees, especially oaks and poplars, in air pollution dynamics.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-isoprene-and-oak-trees-the-conundrum">Isoprene and oak trees: The conundrum</h2>



<p>Sharkey’s research delves into the intricacies of isoprene -- a compound released by certain plants, particularly <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/one-third-of-oak-tree-species-are-threatened-with-extinction/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">oaks</a> and poplars. </p>



<p>This research reveals a paradox. On one hand, with global temperatures rising, these trees emit more isoprene. </p>



<p>This, in turn, interacts with pollutants like <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/air-pollution-linked-to-increased-risk-of-dementia/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">nitrogen oxide</a>, exacerbating poor air quality by contributing to particulate matter and low-atmosphere <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/antarcticas-ozone-hole-is-now-one-of-the-largest-on-record/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ozone</a>.</p>



<p>On the other hand, isoprene bolsters the plants' resistance against environmental stressors such as <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/oak-trees-use-carbohydrate-reserves-to-survive-insect-invasions/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">insect attacks</a> and high temperatures.</p>



<p>This double-edged sword leads Sharkey to ask, “Do we want plants to make more isoprene so they’re more resilient, or do we want them making less so it’s not making air pollution worse? What’s the right balance?”</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-villain-behind-the-scenes">The villain behind-the-scenes</h2>



<p>Despite isoprene from oak trees being the second-largest emitted <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/scientists-uncover-new-way-that-earth-cleans-its-atmosphere/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">hydrocarbon</a> on Earth -- trailing only behind <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/melting-arctic-glaciers-are-releasing-a-new-source-of-potent-methane-emissions/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">methane</a> emissions from human activities -- its significant impact on the environment remains relatively unknown to the general public. </p>



<p>Sharkey, who has studied isoprene since his doctoral days at <a href="https://msu.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Michigan State</a> in the 1970s, sheds light on its importance and the challenges it presents.</p>



<p>Interestingly, this isn't the first time trees have been implicated in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/reducing-air-pollution-could-greatly-boost-carbon-sequestration-by-plants/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">air pollution</a> discussions. </p>



<p>In the 1980s, then-president Ronald Reagan controversially claimed that trees produced more air pollution than cars. This statement, although exaggerated, contained a nugget of truth regarding the role of isoprene. </p>



<p>As Sharkey explains, “There’s this interesting phenomenon where you have air moving across a city landscape, picking up nitrogen oxides, then moving over a forest to give you this toxic brew.”</p>



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



<p>Backed by the <a href="https://www.nsf.gov/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">National Science Foundation</a>, Sharkey's team delves deeper into the mysteries of isoprene production. </p>



<p>Prior to their research, it was known that isoprene production was affected by photosynthesis and that global changes were causing contrasting effects on its emission. </p>



<p>While increased <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/good-news-plants-are-absorbing-more-human-produced-co2-than-expected/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">carbon dioxide</a> reduced isoprene production, higher temperatures accelerated it. The recent study, however, has finally unveiled the specifics of this dynamic. </p>



<p>Lead author Abira Sahu stated, “We were looking for a regulation point in the isoprene’s biosynthesis pathway under high <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/co2-becomes-a-more-potent-greenhouse-gas-as-climate-changes/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">carbon dioxide</a>... And, finally, we have the answer.” </p>



<p>The team's findings suggest that the effect of rising temperatures vastly overshadows that of carbon dioxide. </p>



<p>As Sharkey notes, “By the time you’re at 95 degrees Fahrenheit -- 35 degrees Celsius -- there’s basically no <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/rising-temperatures-may-flip-plankton-into-carbon-emitters/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">CO2</a> suppression. Isoprene is pouring out like wild.”</p>



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



<p>The discoveries of Sharkey's team have significant implications for future climate predictions and planning. </p>



<p>Understanding the volume of isoprene emissions is crucial for anticipating air quality and designing appropriate mitigation strategies. </p>



<p>Mohammad Mostofa, another contributor to the study, emphasized this, saying, “We could be doing a better job.”</p>



<p>For institutions like MSU, with a vast expanse of over <a href="https://msutoday.msu.edu/news/2022/the-science-stewardship-and-stories-behind-msus-trees-2022-update" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">20,000 trees</a>, the findings could influence decisions about future plantings to potentially reduce isoprene emissions. </p>



<p>However, Sharkey offers a more immediate solution that doesn't involve cutting down trees. He suggests improved control of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/reducing-nitrogen-oxide-pollution-could-boost-crop-yields/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">nitrogen oxide</a> pollution as a key countermeasure.</p>



<p>In summary, this comprehensive research, with contributions from experts like Sarathi Weraduwage, an assistant professor at <a href="https://www.ubishops.ca/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Bishop’s University</a> in Quebec, provides crucial insights into the balance between environmental quality and plant resilience. It underscores the importance of informed choices in the face of a warming planet.</p>



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



<p>As discussed above, Oak trees are a diverse and widespread group of trees belonging to the genus Quercus. </p>



<p>Found primarily in the Northern Hemisphere, these trees are known for their strength, longevity, and distinctive wood. </p>



<p>With over 600 species, oak trees display a vast range of sizes, shapes, and habitats, making them an important part of many ecosystems.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-key-characteristics-of-oak-trees">Key characteristics of oak trees</h3>



<ul>
<li>Leaves and Acorns: Oak leaves are generally lobed and come in a variety of shapes and sizes. The trees are also known for producing acorns, their fruit, which play a crucial role in wildlife sustenance and forest ecology.<br></li>



<li>Wood Quality: Oak wood is highly valued for its density, strength, and durability. It's widely used in furniture, flooring, and barrel-making, particularly for wine and whiskey, as it imparts a unique flavor.<br></li>



<li>Longevity: Many oak species can live for several centuries, with some individual trees surpassing a thousand years.</li>
</ul>



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



<ul>
<li>Habitat and Food Source: Oaks provide habitat and food for a wide range of wildlife, including birds, mammals, and insects. Their acorns are especially important for species like squirrels, jays, and deer.<br></li>



<li>Carbon Sequestration: As long-lived trees, oaks are significant in carbon sequestration, helping mitigate climate change impacts.<br></li>



<li>Biodiversity: Oaks support a higher level of biodiversity than many other tree species, hosting various forms of plant and animal life.</li>
</ul>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-cultural-significance-of-oak-trees">Cultural significance of oak trees</h3>



<ul>
<li>Symbolism: Oaks have been symbols of strength, endurance, and longevity in many cultures. They're often associated with historic events and legends.<br></li>



<li>Landscaping and Urban Planning: Due to their majestic appearance and robust nature, oaks are popular in landscaping and urban greening projects.</li>
</ul>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-oak-tree-conservation-and-challenges">Oak tree conservation and challenges</h3>



<ul>
<li>Climate Change and Pests: Oaks face threats from climate change, pests, and diseases like oak wilt and the emerald ash borer. These challenges affect their health and survival.<br></li>



<li>Conservation Efforts: Efforts to conserve oak species include habitat protection, research on disease and pest resistance, and reforestation projects.</li>
</ul>



<p>In summary, oak trees are a key component of many forests and landscapes, while also possessing significant ecological, economic, and cultural value. Their conservation is vital for maintaining the health and diversity of forest ecosystems worldwide.</p>



<p>The full paper was published in the renowned journal <em><a href="https://doi.org/10.1073/pnas.2309536120" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences</a></em>.</p>



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<p>----</p>

Some plants can actually increase air pollution and make climate change worse

At the forefront of environmental discussions at Michigan State University,...

<p>Researchers have uncovered alarming vulnerabilities in coastal communities, stemming from accelerating sea level rise. This phenomenon, primarily driven by <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-is-global-warming-affecting-the-human-brain/">global warming</a>, poses a significant risk to these regions, with minority and disadvantaged populations facing the brunt of its impact.</p>



<p>The study, led by Professor Kelsea Best of <a href="https://www.osu.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">The Ohio State University</a>, sheds light on a critical aspect often overlooked in climate change assessments: the threat of isolation due to rising sea levels.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The experts report that as flooding intensifies, disadvantaged populations will be the ones to experience some of the most severe burdens of climate change.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-disproportionate-risk">Disproportionate risk</h2>



<p>A key finding of the research is the disproportionate risk faced by minority populations when sea levels rise above 4 feet. These groups are more likely to experience isolation, with their access to essential services like emergency care, schools, and grocery stores being severely disrupted.&nbsp;</p>



<p>This risk is further compounded for renters and older adults, highlighting the intersection between historical social inequalities and climate change vulnerabilities.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-rethinking-community-risk-assessment-nbsp">Rethinking community risk assessment&nbsp;</h2>



<p>According to Professor Best, the first step in better characterizing these threats is changing how researchers assess community risk, as most studies measure this by exclusively determining impacts via direct flooding. But concentrating on this sole measurement neglects more complex aftereffects of sea level rise, such as isolation, and reinforces inequality in coastal areas, said Best.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“We need to re-conceptualize how we measure who is burdened by sea level rise because there are so many ways that people might be burdened before their home is flooded."</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-multiple-and-cascading-burdens-nbsp">Multiple and cascading burdens&nbsp;</h2>



<p>"An estimated 20 million coastal residents in the U.S. will be at risk of inundation due to sea level rise (SLR) and/or storm surges by 2030, yet there is less evidence of how multiple and cascading burdens of SLR that are beyond direct inundation will affect disadvantaged populations," wrote the study authors.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Notably, because people need access to essential places like grocery stores, public schools, hospitals and fire stations, the researchers argue that an inability to reach these places impacts individuals just as negatively as if they were living in inundated homes themselves, and should be documented as such.&nbsp;</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-risk-of-isolation-nbsp">Risk of isolation&nbsp;</h2>



<p>The researchers overlayed OpenStreetMap road network data with NOAA's mean higher high water scenarios and recent census data. The analysis revealed that a group's risk of isolation is intricately linked to the specific layout of road networks and the location of vital services in relation to where at-risk individuals live.</p>



<p>The research team found that Hispanic populations are often overrepresented in those at risk of isolation, beginning at 4 feet of sea level rise, while Black populations face similar risks after 6 feet. In contrast, white populations are underrepresented in these risk assessments.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Professor Best emphasized the need for targeted adaptation resources and policies to support those historically marginalized, emphasizing that a 'one-size-fits-all' approach is insufficient and exacerbates existing inequities.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-sobering-timeline-nbsp">A sobering timeline&nbsp;</h2>



<p>The study presents a sobering timeline for the onset of isolation risks in coastal communities. Through a comparison of two long-term sea level rise scenarios, the researchers found that the isolating effects could manifest as early as 2090. This timeline underscores the urgency of addressing climate change and implementing adaptive measures.</p>



<p>“This timeline matters from a planning and adaptation perspective,” said Professor Best. “Part of why we included the temporal piece is to say this issue would not be as much of a problem if we had urgent, aggressive mitigation." </p>



<p>“The effects of climate change are going to be further reaching and more cascading than might be directly obvious, and those effects are not going to be felt equitably. So we need to be thinking about those populations most at risk from the beginning and develop policies to support them.”&nbsp;</p>



<p>The study is published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1038/s41467-023-43835-6" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><em>Nature Communications</em></a>.&nbsp;</p>



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Burdens of climate change: Sea level rise and the risk of isolation 

Researchers have uncovered alarming vulnerabilities in coastal communities, stemming from...

<p>A new study led by geoscientist Rebecca Hamilton at the <a href="https://www.sydney.edu.au/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Sydney</a> is challenging long-held views on the ecological history of South East Asia. </p>



<p>Contrary to the previous belief that dry savannahs dominated the region during the Last Glacial Maximum more than 19,000 years ago, the team discovered a varied landscape of closed and open forest types.&nbsp;</p>



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



<p>The research, published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1073/pnas.2311280120" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><em>Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences</em></a>, has significant implications for understanding the resilience of tropical <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/extraordinary-biodiversity-found-in-ancient-asian-rainforest/">forests</a> to climate change.</p>



<p>Dr. Hamilton emphasizes the importance of this discovery in the context of accelerating climate change. She notes that maintaining a diversity of forest types is key to conserving the region’s ecosystems.&nbsp;</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-transformation-of-forested-areas-nbsp">Transformation of forested areas&nbsp;</h2>



<p>“Our work suggests that prioritizing protection of forests above 1,000 meters (‘montane forest’) alongside seasonally dry forest types could be important for preventing future ‘savannization’ of Asia’s rainforests,” she said.</p>



<p>Savannization refers to the transformation of forested areas into savannah ecosystems, characterized by open wooded plains. This process can be triggered by climate changes, human activities, or natural ecological shifts.</p>



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



<p>"The dominant paradigm is that large tracts of Southeast Asia’s lowland rainforests were replaced with a 'savanna corridor' during the cooler, more seasonal climates of the Last Glacial Maximum," wrote the study authors.&nbsp;</p>



<p>"This interpretation has implications for understanding the resilience of Asia’s tropical forests to projected climate change, implying a vulnerability to savannization."&nbsp;</p>



<p>"A savanna corridor is also an important foundation for archaeological interpretations of how humans moved through and settled insular Southeast Asia and Australia. Yet an up-to-date, multiproxy, and empirical examination of the palaeoecological evidence for this corridor is lacking."</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-paleoenvironmental-sites-nbsp">Paleoenvironmental sites&nbsp;</h2>



<p>To investigate, the researchers analyzed records from 59 paleoenvironmental sites across tropical South East Asia. The team challenged the savannah model, which postulated a vast, uniform grassland expansion during the Last Glacial Maximum.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Instead, their analysis of pollen grains from lakes and other biochemical indicators revealed a coexistence of forests and expanding grasslands during this period.</p>



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



<p>“We put forward the idea that these seeming discrepancies can be reconciled if, during the cool and seasonal climate of the Last Glacial Maximum, montane forests (above 1,000m) persisted and expanded in high-elevation regions, while lowlands experienced a shift to seasonally dry forests, which have a naturally grassy understory,” Hamilton explained.</p>



<p>The research not only offers a revised perspective on the ecological past of South East Asia but also provides valuable insights into the potential resilience of the region’s tropical forests in the face of ongoing climate change. It highlights the critical need for preserving a diversity of forest landscapes to safeguard these ecosystems for the future.</p>



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Forests of South East Asia are more resilient than previously thought

A new study led by geoscientist Rebecca Hamilton at the...

<p>A recent study from <a href="https://dornsife.usc.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">USC Dornsife</a> has unveiled startling new insights into one of Earth's most devastating mass extinction events. </p>



<p>The research not only deepens our understanding of the catastrophic end-Triassic mass extinction but also offers vital lessons for addressing today's environmental challenges.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-end-triassic-catastrophe">The end-Triassic catastrophe</h2>



<p>Approximately 200 million years ago, the Earth underwent its fourth major mass extinction event, marking the end of the Triassic period and the dawn of the Jurassic era.&nbsp;</p>



<p>This catastrophic event, triggered by a dramatic surge in greenhouse gases from volcanic activity, led to rapid global warming and a profound transformation of the planet's biosphere.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Today, as scientists grapple with the potential of a current mass extinction driven by similar climate changes, this historical event becomes increasingly significant.</p>



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



<p>The USC Dornsife team adopted an innovative "ecospace framework" method to analyze the impact of this extinction on both marine and terrestrial ecosystems. This approach categorizes animals beyond mere species classification, considering their ecological roles and behaviors.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Study senior author Professor David Bottjer emphasized the importance of understanding how different species' roles in the ecosystem evolved through this catastrophic period.</p>



<p>“We wanted to understand not just who survived and who didn’t, but how the roles that different species played in the ecosystem changed,” said Professor Bottjer. “This approach helps us see the broader, interconnected ecological picture.”</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-diverse-impacts">Diverse impacts</h2>



<p>The study revealed a stark contrast in the impacts on marine versus terrestrial ecosystems. While ocean life experienced a significant loss, with nearly 71% of genera vanishing, the marine ecosystem structure displayed remarkable resilience.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Land ecosystems faced a bleaker scenario, with a staggering 96% of terrestrial genera going extinct, reshaping Earth's landscape dramatically.</p>



<p>“This contrast between land and sea tells us about the different ways ecosystems respond to catastrophic events,” said co-lead author Alison Cribb. “It also raises important questions about the interplay of biodiversity and ecological resilience.”</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-learning-from-ancient-climate-change">Learning from ancient climate change</h2>



<p>“Understanding past mass extinctions helps us to predict and possibly soften the impacts of current and future environmental crises,” said co-lead author Kiersten Formoso.</p>



<p>The parallels between the rapid global warming of the end-Triassic and today's climate changes are striking.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“We’re seeing similar patterns now - rapid climate change, loss of biodiversity. Learning how ecosystems responded in the past can inform our conservation efforts today,” said Professor Bottjer.</p>



<p>The research also provides a rare window into the world as it existed over 200 million years ago, he added. “It’s like a time machine, giving us a glimpse of life during a period of profound change.”</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-fresh-perspective-nbsp">A fresh perspective&nbsp;</h2>



<p>The study’s ecospace framework, with its focus on functional roles, offers a fresh perspective on ancient life, said Professor Frank Corsetti.</p>



<p>“It’s not just about identifying fossils. It’s about piecing together the puzzle of ancient ecosystems and how they functioned.”</p>



<p>Future research</p>



<p>The team plans to expand this research to explore species recovery post-extinction and the parallels with current biodiversity loss due to climate change.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“We’ve just scratched the surface,” said Cribb. “There’s so much more to learn about how life on Earth responds to extreme changes, and this new ecospace framework offers great potential for helping us do that.”</p>



<p>The study is published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1098/rspb.2023.2232" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><em>Proceedings of the Royal Society B Biological Sciences</em></a><em>.</em></p>



<p>Image Credit: Courtesy of Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County</p>



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Mass extinction event shows how life responds to extreme changes

A recent study from USC Dornsife has unveiled startling new...

<p>In an era where the fragility of our natural environment is more apparent than ever, the Endangered Species Act (<a href="https://www.fws.gov/law/endangered-species-act" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ESA</a>) stands as a critical piece of legislation. But as we move further into the 21st century, the question arises: how can this act evolve to effectively combat the growing threats to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/global-biodiversity-crisis-is-actually-worse-than-we-thought/">biodiversity</a>? </p>



<p>Experts are now turning to a blend of technology, economics, and human intervention to reshape the conservation landscape.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Professor Tanya Berger-Wolf and Amy Ando of <a href="https://www.osu.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">The Ohio State University</a> are at the forefront of integrating technology and economics into conservation efforts.</p>



<p>The researchers shared their insights in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1126/science.adn3245" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><em>Science</em></a>, offering a fresh perspective on the future of the Endangered Species Act (ESA) and its implementation.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-bridging-technology-and-nature">Bridging technology and nature</h2>



<p>Tanya Berger-Wolf, faculty director of Ohio State’s Translational Data Analytics Institute, emphasized the importance of a "Sustainable, trustworthy, human-technology partnership."&nbsp;</p>



<p>"We are in the middle of a mass extinction without even knowing all that we are losing and how fast," said Berger-Wolf. However, she also pointed out the potential of technology to change this narrative.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-new-tools">New tools</h3>



<p>New technological tools, such as camera traps and smartphone apps, are enabling large-scale monitoring of animal and plant populations. These tools empower scientists and citizen scientists to contribute to data collection on biodiversity that benefits the Endangered Species Act.</p>



<p>“But even with all this data, we are still monitoring only a tiny fraction of the biodiversity out in the world,” said Berger-Wolf. “Without that information, we don’t know what we have, how different species are doing and whether our policies to protect endangered species are working.”</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-bonding-with-nature">Bonding with nature</h3>



<p>Berger-Wolf warned against an over-reliance on technology alone. She advocates for maintaining a strong connection between people and nature. "We don’t want to sever the connection between people and nature, we want to strengthen it."&nbsp;</p>



<p>Berger-Wolf emphasized the need for a conscious partnership between humans, technology, and AI in the quest to preserve biodiversity.</p>



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



<p>Amy Ando, professor and chair of the Department of Agricultural, Environmental, and Development Economics at Ohio State, focused on "Harnessing economics for effective implementation."&nbsp;</p>



<p>Professor Ando noted that while biology and ecology are crucial, economics plays a significant role in the successful implementation of the Endangered Species Act.&nbsp;</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-sweeping-changes-nbsp">Sweeping changes&nbsp;</h3>



<p>"Though the ESA precludes the use of economic analysis in making listing decisions, insights and tools from economics have helped to make management and policy related to the ESA more successful and trigger sweeping changes in many human behaviors including logging, development, and water use," wrote Ando.&nbsp;</p>



<p>"For example, economics research has informed efforts to reduce perverse habitat destruction incentives created by the original ESA and helped to quantify the impacts, costs, and benefits of ESA protections."</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-bioeconomic-research-nbsp">Bioeconomic research&nbsp;</h3>



<p>Bioeconomic research, a collaboration between economists and biologists, examines how human behavior affects ecological systems and vice versa.</p>



<p>Professor Ando described innovative approaches like "pop-up" habitat modification, which involves temporary actions like removing fences during elk migration or flooding rice fields for shorebirds. These actions, optimized through economic principles, can provide significant benefits to both society and the environment.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-proactive-policies-nbsp">Proactive policies&nbsp;</h3>



<p>Furthermore, Ando highlighted the importance of proactive policies that protect species before they require ESA protection. This involves navigating complex scenarios where multiple landowners must coordinate their efforts to protect habitats.&nbsp;</p>



<p>According to Professor Ando, economists are exploring ways to achieve this coordination without imposing heavy regulations, thus reducing the cost of conservation while effectively protecting species.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-multidisciplinary-approach-nbsp">A multidisciplinary approach&nbsp;</h2>



<p>The insights from Berger-Wolf and Ando underscore the importance of a multidisciplinary approach to conservation. By integrating technology and economics into the framework of the ESA, we can develop more effective strategies to protect our planet's biodiversity.&nbsp;</p>



<p>It's a reminder that saving endangered species is not just a matter of ecological concern, but a complex challenge that requires technology, economics, and human engagement to be effectively solved.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-endangered-species-act-nbsp">The Endangered Species Act&nbsp;</h2>



<p>"The Endangered Species Act was signed into law on Dec. 28 in 1973. It’s appropriate that it happened in the midst of the winter holiday season because it’s one of the best gifts we’ve ever given ourselves. It’s our nation’s most effective law to protect at-risk animals and plants from extinction both nationally and abroad," wrote the World Wildlife Foundation (WWF).</p>



<p>"Currently, under the Endangered Species Act, more than 1,670 species native to the United States and 698 species in other countries are safeguarded to increase their chances of survival. And it’s had a stellar success rate so far with 99% of species listed still with us - dodging extinction and many species making the slow march toward recovery."&nbsp;</p>



<p>"Scientists estimate that hundreds of species have been rescued from the brink of extinction in the United States since the Endangered Species Act went into effect. Fifty years later, we’re reflecting on the success of our bedrock conservation law - and continuing to work together to ensure that it protects the world's most vulnerable species for another 50 years (and more!)."</p>



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



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The Endangered Species Act turns 50 years old today

In an era where the fragility of our natural environment...

Microplastics,In,Soil,A,Test,Tube,With,Soil,Sample,-

<p>In recent years, the accumulation of plastic waste in the environment has emerged as a pressing concern. While the pollution of oceans by plastics is widely recognized, the presence of microplastics in soils across the globe is equally alarming. </p>



<p>These plastics, breaking down into <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/humans-inhale-the-equivalent-of-a-credit-card-in-microplastics-each-week/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">microplastics</a> (MPs), significantly impact soil properties and, alarmingly, find their way into the human food chain, raising health concerns.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-microplastics-soil-and-corporate-sustainability">Microplastics, soil, and corporate sustainability</h2>



<p>The effects of microplastics on soil are crucial in the realm of corporate sustainability, particularly under the 'Environmental' pillar of Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) goals.</p>



<p>Companies worldwide are increasingly expected to adopt eco-friendly approaches, with a strong focus on addressing plastic pollution. </p>



<p>However, the complex interaction between soil and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/microplastics-found-embedded-in-tissues-of-whales-and-dolphins/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">microplastics</a>, influenced by the diversity of both soil types and microplastics, complicates understanding and managing their environmental impact.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-innovative-research-using-ai-machine-learning">Innovative research using AI machine learning</h2>



<p>To bridge the research gap in this area, a team led by <a href="https://pure.korea.ac.kr/en/persons/yong-sik-ok-2" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Prof. Yong Sik Ok</a>, a Korean University Professor and a prominent figure in environmental governance, applied AI machine learning (ML) techniques to study <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/microplastics-found-in-clouds-may-be-affecting-the-weather/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">microplastics</a> in soil. </p>



<p>Professor Ok emphasizes the efficiency and predictive power of ML in environmental research, explaining, “ML is a dynamic and transformative field of artificial intelligence (AI) that uses algorithms and models to learn and make predictions from vast datasets with great accuracy."</p>



<p>"Using ML to comprehensively understand the role of MPs in soil systems is time- and resource-efficient and provides a foundation for future research on this subject,” Professor Ok noted.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-key-insights-on-microplastics-and-soil">Key insights on microplastics and soil</h2>



<p>The study revealed that various factors of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/citizen-scientists-uncover-microplastics-in-the-remote-arctic/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">microplastics</a>, including type, size, shape, and concentration, have distinct effects on soil properties. </p>



<p>Notably, the size of microplastics was identified as a critical factor influencing soil characteristics. The study also highlighted the distinct impacts of microplastic shape, type, and concentration on soil chemistry.</p>



<p>Professor Ok explained, “This pioneering study contributes essential data to support informed decision-making on plastic waste management, aligning with the global focus on sustainability and ESG principles. It underscores the importance of innovative research in guiding corporate sustainability efforts, where plastic-related issues are a growing concern." </p>



<p>"The application of ML techniques to this problem demonstrates the potential for advanced technology to drive sustainable practices and create a greener, more eco-conscious future,” says Prof. Ok.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-microplastic-soil-pollution-implications">Microplastic soil pollution implications</h2>



<p>The study's use of AI machine learning to analyze <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/microplastics-contaminate-all-lakes-and-freshwater-environments-around-the-world/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">microplastics</a> influence on soil represents a significant advancement in understanding and addressing the plastic waste challenge. </p>



<p>This approach marks a departure from traditional, more labor-intensive methods, highlighting the potential of technology in fostering sustainable practices.</p>



<p>"Our ML-based method in this study demonstrates the role of advanced technology in tackling MP pollution," Prof. Ok adds. </p>



<p>"Such research can inform plastic waste management strategies, align with global sustainability goals, and potentially revolutionize corporate sustainability, leading to green job creation and sustainable development."</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-role-of-corporations-and-communities">Role of corporations and communities</h2>



<p>Incorporating ML insights into studying <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/plastic-rain-the-growing-threat-of-airborne-microplastics/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">microplastics</a> aligns with social responsibility and fosters sustainable practices with positive community impacts. </p>



<p>Companies addressing <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/experts-have-a-new-method-to-estimate-the-age-of-microplastics-in-the-ocean/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">microplastic</a> pollution can reduce their environmental footprint and build community trust by applying ML solutions. </p>



<p>These efforts might also influence industry standards, potentially creating jobs and stimulating economic growth in related sectors.</p>



<p>"These findings could revolutionize corporate sustainability efforts and pave the way for more green jobs and sustainable development to create a greener and eco-conscious world for current and future generations,” says Prof. Ok.</p>



<p>In summary, this research highlights the pressing issue of microplastics pollution in soil while also showcasing the potential of machine learning in advancing our understanding and management of environmental challenges. </p>



<p>The findings in this study help pave the way for a more sustainable and eco-conscious future.</p>



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



<p>As discussed above, microplastics, tiny fragments of plastic less than 5mm in size, have emerged as a major environmental concern. </p>



<p>They originate from various sources, including the breakdown of larger plastic items, microbeads in personal care products, and synthetic fibers from clothing.</p>



<p>The primary sources of microplastics are consumer products and industrial processes. These tiny particles easily enter natural ecosystems through waste water, wind, and runoff. </p>



<p>They are now ubiquitous, found in oceans, rivers, soils, and even the air we breathe.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-impact-on-wildlife-and-humans">Impact on wildlife and humans</h3>



<p>Microplastics pose a significant threat to wildlife. Marine animals often mistake them for food, leading to ingestion and accumulation in the food chain. </p>



<p>This not only harms the animals directly but also affects the entire ecosystem and can eventually impact human health.</p>



<p>Humans are exposed to microplastics through various means, including seafood and water. The long-term health impacts of this exposure are still under investigation, but there are concerns about potential toxicity and other adverse effects.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-fighting-the-microplastic-problem">Fighting the microplastic problem</h3>



<p>To tackle the issue of microplastics, governments, organizations, and individuals are taking action. </p>



<p>This includes banning microbeads in personal care products, promoting recycling, and developing biodegradable alternatives. </p>



<p>Public awareness campaigns also play a crucial role in reducing the use and disposal of plastics.</p>



<p>In summary, microplastics are a pervasive environmental issue with far-reaching consequences for ecosystems and human health. </p>



<p>Addressing this challenge requires collective efforts from all sectors of society to reduce plastic usage and improve waste management practices.</p>



<p>The full study was published in the journal <em><a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0269749123018353?via%3Dihub" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Environmental Pollution</a></em>.</p>



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



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

AI reveals how microplastics are harming global soil and agriculture

In recent years, the accumulation of plastic waste in the...

<p>California has taken a monumental step in water conservation and management by approving new regulations that allow the conversion and recycling of wastewater into <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/cheap-and-drinkable-water-from-desalination-is-finally-a-reality/">drinking water</a>. </p>



<p>The measure is a critical response to the severe drought conditions that have plagued the state in recent years.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-new-era-in-water-management">New era in water management</h2>



<p>This decision by the <a href="https://www.waterboards.ca.gov/">California State Water Resources Control Board</a> marks a significant shift in water resource management, setting a precedent for other states facing similar challenges.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The new rules permit water agencies to treat wastewater and reintroduce it into the drinking water supply. This process, known as direct potable reuse, positions California as a leader in advanced water recycling standards.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-decades-in-the-making">Decades in the making</h2>



<p>The journey to this decision has spanned over a decade, involving rigorous scientific reviews and the development of stringent safety standards. The approval of these regulations arrives just before the state-mandated deadline of December 31.</p>



<p>"This is an exciting development in the state's ongoing efforts to find innovative solutions to the challenges of extreme weather driven by climate change," said E. Joaquin Esquivel, chair of the Water Resources Control Board.</p>



<p>"On top of helping us build drought-resilient water supplies, direct potable reuse offers energy savings and environmental benefits. And most importantly, these regulations ensure that the water produced is not only safe, but purer than many drinking water sources we now rely on."</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-addressing-climate-change-nbsp">Addressing climate change&nbsp;</h2>



<p>California is now the second state, following Colorado, to permit this form of water recycling. The process aims to add millions of gallons of drinking water to the state's supply, offering a sustainable solution to the pressing issue of water scarcity exacerbated by climate change.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The state has experienced its driest period in recent history, with occasional heavy rainfall providing only temporary relief. </p>



<p>These new regulations are part of California's broader strategy to build drought-resilient water supplies and address the ongoing climate crisis.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-toilet-to-tap-recycling-wastewater">Toilet to tap -- recycling wastewater</h2>



<p>Other states have already begun exploring similar measures. Texas initiated wastewater conversion in 2013, and a brewery in California's Half Moon Bay recently adopted recycled wastewater. Colorado's water board approved the process last year.</p>



<p>California's water board reported that water systems can start submitting plans to begin purifying wastewater once the new regulations are finalized by the Office of Administrative Law next year.</p>



<p>Esquivel pointed out that many Californians are already consuming recycled water, as most wastewater treatment plants discharge treated water back into rivers and streams.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“Anyone out there taking drinking water downstream from a wastewater treatment plant discharge - which, I promise you, you’re all doing - is already drinking toilet to tap,” said Esquivel. </p>



<p>“All water is recycled. What we have here are standards, science and - importantly - monitoring that allow us to have the faith that it is pure water.”</p>



<p>In summary, California's move to recycle wastewater into drinking water reflects a growing recognition of the need for innovative, sustainable solutions to water scarcity. </p>



<p>These regulations not only address immediate drought concerns but also set a benchmark for future water management strategies in the face of climate change.</p>



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

Toilet to tap: California approves wastewater recycling amid drought crisis

California has taken a monumental step in water conservation and...

<p>In a study that challenges long-standing assumptions, researchers have uncovered surprising insights into the nesting success of wild turkeys. </p>



<p>Contrary to popular belief, researchers from <a href="https://www.ncsu.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">North Carolina State University</a> discovered that rainfall during nesting season may not be as crucial to their reproductive success as previously thought. This revelation opens new avenues for understanding how climate change could impact these fascinating birds.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-weather-and-wild-turkey-nesting-success">Weather and wild turkey nesting success</h2>



<p>The aim of this study was to investigate the influence of weather conditions during nesting season on wild <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/turkey-domestication-happened-least-1500-years-ago/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">turkey</a> reproductive success and to extrapolate these findings to assess the potential impact of climate change on turkey populations. </p>



<p>Wesley Boone, corresponding author and postdoctoral researcher at North Carolina State University, explains, "We wanted to know how weather influences nesting success right now and then use that data to assess how climate change may influence wild turkey populations in the future."</p>



<p>Wild turkeys, known for their adaptability to a wide range of environmental conditions, face numerous factors that can affect their reproductive success. </p>



<p>This study focused specifically on two critical environmental conditions: precipitation and temperature. The goal was to understand their influence on nest survival during the incubation period. </p>



<p>“Wild turkeys are fairly tolerant of a wide range of conditions, but there are a host of factors that can affect their reproductive success,” says Chris Moorman, co-author of the study and a professor of forestry and environmental resources at NC&nbsp;State. “This work focused on two of those conditions, precipitation and temperature, and how they may influence nest survival during the incubation period.”</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-study-methodology-and-results">Study methodology and results</h2>



<p>To investigate the impact of weather conditions on wild <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/wild-turkeys-struggle-to-shift-their-behavior-in-response-to-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">turkey</a> nesting success, researchers closely examined daily nest survival, which measures whether the eggs within a nest survive over a 24-hour period. </p>



<p>Over a span of eight years, the team monitored 715 turkey nests, meticulously collecting daily data on precipitation and temperature throughout the entire incubation period. With temperature, researchers analyzed the variations between nest temperatures and historical averages.</p>



<p>The study's most astonishing discovery was that precipitation during nesting had no significant correlation with daily nest survival. This finding contradicts the widely held belief that increased rainfall heightens the chances of egg mortality. </p>



<p>“The most surprising finding was that precipitation during nesting was not a good predictor of daily nest survival,” Moorman says. “It had been widely believed that particularly rainy weather made it more likely that eggs wouldn’t survive.”</p>



<p>Surprisingly, the data revealed that higher temperatures, exceeding historical averages, were correlated with enhanced daily nest survival during the incubation period. As peak nesting season typically falls in April, this finding specifically refers to warmer-than-average spring weather. </p>



<p>“We also found that temperatures which were higher than historical averages were associated with higher rates of daily nest survival during incubation,” says Boone. “Peak nesting season is generally in April, so we’re talking about warmer than average spring weather.”</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-wild-turkey-nesting-success-is-complicated">Wild turkey nesting success is complicated</h2>



<p>While the initial findings seem to suggest that climate change might favor <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/10-things-turkeys/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">wild turkey</a> reproductive success and, consequently, population growth, a more in-depth analysis reveals the complexity of this relationship. </p>



<p>“Taken by itself, this might suggest that climate change could benefit turkey reproductive success and, by extension, turkey populations,” Moorman says. </p>



<p>“However, we also looked at precipitation and temperature data for the months leading up to nesting season, and at the overall likelihood that a turkey nest will successfully hatch at least one egg. And when we looked at both of those datasets, things get a lot less clear,” Moorman continued.</p>



<p>The researchers also investigated precipitation and temperature data for the months leading up to nesting season and examined the overall likelihood of successful hatching for individual <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/troublemaking-turkeys-boston/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">turkey</a> nests. This cumulative analysis proves considerably less conclusive.</p>



<p>The data suggests that higher levels of precipitation in January, well before nesting season, are associated with increased nest survival rates. Conversely, higher January temperatures appear to have a negative impact on nesting survival. </p>



<p>However, due to the considerable uncertainty surrounding these findings, it is unclear whether a definitive relationship exists or if these observations are merely anomalies. </p>



<p>“For example, the data suggest that more precipitation in January – long before nesting season – is associated with greater nest survival,” Boone elaborates. </p>



<p>“The data also suggest that higher temperatures in January are associated with worse nesting survival. But there is so much uncertainty related to those findings that it’s not clear whether there’s a real relationship there, or if it’s an anomaly. However, it does temper any enthusiasm we might have about the likelihood that climate change will benefit turkey populations,” Boone concluded</p>



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



<p>While this study challenges the prevailing assumption regarding the influence of precipitation on wild turkey nesting success, it offers a new perspective on how climate change may affect these populations. </p>



<p>The findings show that the intricate interplay between weather conditions and reproductive success requires further investigation. Understanding the nuances of this relationship is crucial for effective wildlife conservation strategies in the face of climate change.</p>



<p>In summary this study serves as a reminder of the complexities of ecological systems and the impact that climate change can have on wildlife populations. By delving into the intricate dynamics of wild turkey nesting patterns, researchers are striving to safeguard these iconic birds and inform conservation efforts in an ever-changing world.</p>



<p>The full study was published in the <em><a href="https://wildlife.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/jwmg.22524" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Journal of Wildlife Management</a></em>.</p>



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



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Uncovering the secrets of wild turkey nesting habits

In a study that challenges long-standing assumptions, researchers have uncovered...

<p>Researchers from the <a href="https://www.umw.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Mary Washington</a> have discovered alarming levels of cancer-causing metals in both the sediments and fish of a Chesapeake Bay tributary situated near a coal ash landfill. </p>



<p>This research, led by Dr. Tyler Frankel, highlights previously overlooked dangers posed by trace metal contamination in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ripple-effects-wildfires-reshape-aquatic-ecosystems/">aquatic ecosystems</a>.</p>



<p>The study represents a significant step forward in understanding the environmental and health risks associated with metal contamination near coal ash landfills.&nbsp;</p>



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



<p>The researchers set out to investigate the role of sediments in the storage, release, and transportation of trace metals in waterways.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The study was initiated in an effort to address a gap in risk management concerning these contaminants, specifically in relation to aquatic species and their habitats.</p>



<p>"While the ecological impacts of large scale accidental releases such as the Kingston coal ash spill are well documented, little is known about the effects of chronic exposure to contamination stemming from leaking repositories," wrote the study authors.&nbsp;</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-key-findings">Key findings</h2>



<p>The research was focused on areas surrounding five coal ash facilities in Virginia. The results were alarming. Coal ash, a common industrial waste in the U.S., contains several water-soluble metals such as cadmium, selenium, mercury, lead, and arsenic.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The experts found that there were significantly increased levels of these metals in the sediments at the bottoms of waterways and within the tissues of banded killifish living near the coal ash landfills.</p>



<p>"These waterways serve as important routes for several migratory fish species and sensitive nursery habitats for various endemic species," said Dr. Frankel. "Our work highlights the importance of considering this exposure pathway in conservation strategies."&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>



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



<p>The health implications of these findings are severe. Long-term exposure to metals like arsenic, cadmium, and chromium is linked to cancer, cardiovascular risks, and other health issues in both wildlife and humans.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Furthermore, these contaminants increase in concentration as they progress up the food web, posing threats to predatory fish and birds, noted Dr. Frankel. He emphasized the importance of this research in the broader context of environmental stewardship.</p>



<p>"As the Chesapeake Bay watershed is one of the largest and most productive estuaries in the United States, understanding our impacts on its waterways is critical to the long-term stewardship of this precious resource," said Dr. Frankel.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-funding-and-support">Funding and support</h2>



<p>The research was made possible through a $92,037 grant from the Morris Animal Foundation. This funding not only supported field sampling and laboratory analyses but also allowed the findings to be distributed to national societies, including the Chesapeake Potomac Regional Chapter of the Society of Environmental Toxicology and Chemistry. The grant also provided training opportunities for emerging scientists.</p>



<p>The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0269749123017700" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><em>Environmental Pollution</em></a>. </p>



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Cancer-causing metals leak into water near coal ash landfills 

Researchers from the University of Mary Washington have discovered alarming...

Flying,Honeybee,Collecting,Pollen,At,Yellow,Flower

<p>It's a well-established fact that pesticide sprays pose a significant threat to honey bees. However, recent research has shed light on a less known aspect of this peril -- the impact of such sprays on bees' sense of smell, with potential consequences on their vital social interactions.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-chemical-communication-in-bee-colonies">Chemical communication in bee colonies</h2>



<p>Honey <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/concerning-levels-of-bee-harming-pesticides-discovered-in-english-rivers/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">bees</a> are part of highly dynamic communities where communication is key. They rely heavily on chemical signals, known as pheromones, to perform essential colony functions. </p>



<p>Nurse <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/honey-bees-cannot-fly-straight-after-ingesting-pesticides/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">bees</a>, tasked with nurturing future queens and worker bees, use these pheromones to monitor larvae in the darkness of the hive. </p>



<p>Larvae emit specific pheromones to signal their need for food, while worker bees produce alarm pheromones to alert the colony to danger. If these chemical cues are distorted or not perceived accurately, the entire colony's survival can be at stake.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-insecticides-pesticides-and-bees">Insecticides, pesticides and bees</h2>



<p>For years, scientists have been aware of the declining bee populations since 2007, with insecticides being a major concern. <a href="https://experts.illinois.edu/en/persons/may-r-berenbaum" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">May Berenbaum</a>, a respected professor of entomology at GEGC/IGOH, highlights a surprising twist in this saga. </p>



<p>“For many years, it was assumed that fungicides do not have an adverse impact on insects because they are designed for fungal targets,” Berenbaum explains. “Surprisingly, in addition to insecticides, fungicides also have an adverse effect on <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/omega-3-oil-may-help-protect-pollinators-from-pesticides/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">bees</a> and combining the two can disrupt colony function.”</p>



<p>The problem has been particularly evident in almond orchards, which host two-thirds of U.S. honey <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/rising-temperatures-increase-pesticide-toxicity-in-bees/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">bees</a> annually. Here, pesticide sprays often include adjuvants -- substances added to increase the efficacy of insecticides. </p>



<p>These adjuvants, though traditionally viewed as harmless, have not undergone the rigorous safety testing that other insecticidal agents have. </p>



<p>Berenbaum's recent findings are alarming. “Recently, researchers have shown that adjuvants alone or when used in combination with fungicides and insecticides are toxic to bees,” Berenbaum said.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-investigating-the-impact-of-pesticides-on-bees">Investigating the impact of pesticides on bees</h2>



<p>The health of nurse <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/pesticides-make-it-harder-for-male-bees-to-attract-mates/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">bees</a>, crucial for producing healthy queens, is particularly jeopardized by these chemical combinations. </p>



<p>Berenbaum emphasizes the gravity of this issue, stating, “The health of the queens is paramount,” she said. “If healthy queens are not produced, the colony can suffer.”</p>



<p>To delve deeper, researchers conducted an experiment using the adjuvant Dyne-Amic, the fungicide Tilt, and the insecticide Altacor. </p>



<p>They divided bees into four groups, exposing each to different treatments involving these chemicals. The bees' antennae were then tested for their response to mimic brood and alarm pheromones using a technique known as electroantennography.</p>



<p>Ling-Hsiu Liao and Wen-Yen Wu, members of the <a href="https://publish.illinois.edu/maybe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Berenbaum lab</a>, discovered that nurse bees consuming pollen contaminated by these chemicals showed altered responses to certain pheromones. </p>



<p>This finding implies that commonly used pesticides can interfere with honey <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/pesticides-impair-the-ability-of-bees-to-pollinate-strawberries/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">bee</a> communication, disrupting their crucial social cues.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-more-research-is-needed">More research is needed</h2>



<p>However, the exact mechanisms behind how these chemicals affect bees' <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/hidden-danger-bees-cant-taste-lethal-pesticides-in-nectar/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">sensory responses</a> remain unclear.</p>



<p>“There are many possible explanations for how consuming these chemicals can affect the sensory responses of bees,” Liao said. “The antenna detects and triggers the response to olfactory signals. In this study we did not look at what other changes are triggered, particularly changes in behavior.”</p>



<p>The team aims to further investigate the molecular pathways affected by these chemicals and to test other pesticide mixtures. Their goal is to provide insights that could help beekeepers better protect their colonies.</p>



<p>In summary, this study is a crucial reminder of the intricate and delicate balance within bee colonies and how human practices can inadvertently disrupt it. </p>



<p>As we continue to unravel the complexities of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/bee-communication-is-hindered-by-human-activity/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">bee communication</a> and its susceptibility to external chemicals, we also uncover the urgent need to reevaluate and possibly reform our agricultural practices for the preservation of these vital pollinators.</p>



<p>The full study was published in the journal <em><a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41598-023-41818-7">Scientific Reports</a></em>.</p>



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Pesticides disrupt bees’ sense of smell and social signals

It's a well-established fact that pesticide sprays pose a significant...

<p>A report from the <a href="https://www.ceh.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">United Nations Centre for Ecology &amp; Hydrology</a> outlines a strategy to drastically reduce nitrogen pollution from agriculture and the food system in Europe.&nbsp;</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-nitrogen-pollution">Nitrogen pollution</h2>



<p>Nitrogen is essential for plant growth, yet its excessive use in agriculture, primarily through animal excretion and synthetic fertilizers, leads to severe environmental impacts.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The report highlights that up to 80% of nitrogen leaks into the environment in harmful forms like ammonia, nitrogen oxides, nitrous oxide, and nitrate, causing air pollution and water quality degradation.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-recipe-for-change">Recipe for change</h2>



<p>The researchers identified a startling inefficiency in the European food system, where only 18% of nitrogen is effectively utilized, leaving the vast majority to pollute air, water, and soils. The report presents a "recipe" to halve these losses.</p>



<ul>
<li>Reducing meat and dairy consumption: Halving the average European consumption of meat and dairy, currently around 70kg per year, and shifting to plant-based diets.</li>
</ul>



<ul>
<li>Improving fertilizer management: More efficient application and storage of fertilizers and manure.</li>
</ul>



<ul>
<li>Cutting down food waste: Reducing waste by retailers and consumers.</li>
</ul>



<ul>
<li>Enhancing wastewater treatment: Capturing nitrogen from sewage to reduce emissions and recycle nutrients for field application.</li>
</ul>



<ul>
<li>Incentivizing sustainable food choices: Offering financial incentives for low-impact foods and incorporating them into public sector catering.</li>
</ul>



<ul>
<li>Policy support: Implementing policies that support a sustainable transition in food production and consumption.</li>
</ul>



<ul>
<li>Collaborative effort: Engaging farmers, industry, government, and consumers in joint efforts to reduce nitrogen losses.</li>
</ul>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-implications-of-nitrogen-pollution-reduction">Implications of nitrogen pollution reduction</h2>



<p>“Action does not begin and end at the farm gate; it requires a holistic approach involving not only farmers but policymakers, retailers, water companies and individuals. It is also not saying we should all become vegan," said Professor Mark Sutton.</p>



<p>"Our analysis finds that a broad package of actions including a demitarian approach (halving meat and dairy consumption) scored most highly in looking to halve nitrogen waste by 2030.”</p>



<p>The research builds on the 2014 "Nitrogen on the Table" report, which identified livestock as a major contributor to Europe's nitrogen emissions. It suggests that plant-based diets are not only healthier but also more environmentally efficient, requiring less land and fertilizers.</p>



<p>The recent energy and fertilizer price hikes, partly due to the Ukraine war, underline the urgency to minimize wasteful nitrogen losses.&nbsp;</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-plant-based-diets">Plant-based diets</h2>



<p>Study lead author Dr. Adrian Leip from the European Commission emphasized the resilience benefits of plant-based diets amidst the current food, energy, and climate crises.</p>



<p>“The unprecedented rise of energy, fertilizer and food prices since 2021 underlines the need to address the vulnerability of the current food system," said Dr. Liep.</p>



<p>"Plant-based diets require less land and fertilisers, reduce energy use and increase our resilience to the current multi-crises: food, energy, climate. Freeing up land to restore habitats would help tackle the climate and biodiversity crises.”</p>



<p>The researchers evaluated 144 scenarios involving varying degrees of dietary changes, agricultural practices, and wastewater treatment investments.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The team found that the balanced approach of halving meat and dairy consumption combined with improved farm management could potentially reduce nitrogen losses by 49% and offered the highest net societal benefit.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-future-of-nitrogen-pollution">The future of nitrogen pollution</h2>



<p>The report, a critical contribution from the <a href="https://www.clrtap-tfrn.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Task Force on Reactive Nitrogen</a> of the UNECE Convention on Long-range Transboundary Air Pollution, will be accessible from the taskforce’s website from December 20, 2023.&nbsp;</p>



<p>In summary, the research presents a comprehensive and actionable blueprint to address one of the most pressing environmental challenges of our time. It shows that a collective effort can lead to significant improvements in both environmental and human health.</p>



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Nitrogen pollution from food production could be reduced by 50%

A report from the United Nations Centre for Ecology &amp;...

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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Traffic fumes may trigger Alzheimer's

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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What caused the planet's longest ice age

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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Greenland's ground rises while coasts worldwide face higher seas

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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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>



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



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Revolutionizing agriculture through microbiome engineering

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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The environmental problem we actually solved

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

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

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<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>



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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"

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Wetlands are a major source of methane emissions

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

The rapid retreat of the Columbia Glacier

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

2022 illustrated the consequences of a warming climate

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Satellites reveal how Earth's systems are interconnected

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Tiger sharks are shifting poleward as temperatures rise

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Melt ponds on the Greenland Ice Sheet

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Tracking changes in Earth's water cycle

[sendtonews key="fxH3eJHEkQ-2010196-12187" type="single"] Today’s Video of the Day from the...

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Mysterious "spoke season" captured on Saturn

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