A new phenomenon dubbed "ice piracy" is unfolding in the frigid wilderness of West Antarctica, where one glacier appears to be stealing ice from its neighbor. 



This unusual behavior - once believed to take hundreds or even thousands of years - has now been recorded happening in under two decades.



Scientists from the University of Leeds, working with international collaborators, have used high-resolution satellite data to reveal that a fast-moving glacier is redirecting ice flow away from its slower neighbor.



This surprising event is changing how scientists understand the dynamics of glaciers - and how such shifts may contribute to future sea-level rise. Their findings, now published in The Cryosphere, provide rare insight into these rapid changes.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-fast-paced-shift-in-the-ice">Fast-paced shift in the ice</h2>



Between 2005 and 2022, researchers observed that seven <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ice-streams-move-unpredictably-due-to-hidden-quakes/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ice streams</a> in the Pope, Smith, and Kohler (PSK) region of West Antarctica sped up significantly. 



One glacier nearly doubled its speed - an 87% increase - at the point where it meets the ocean. 



Three other glaciers accelerated by 60% to 84%. By 2022, six of these streams were moving at more than 700 meters (0.4 miles) per year. That’s the equivalent of covering just over seven football fields in just one year.



This kind of acceleration, especially so close to the grounding line - the point where a glacier starts to float - is a warning sign. 



Grounding lines help track the stability of ice sheets. Changes in their position or speed suggest the system is out of balance and can influence how ice flows inland.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-slowing-glaciers-leads-to-ice-piracy">Slowing glaciers leads to ice piracy</h2>



But not every glacier followed the same pattern. The Kohler West glacier actually slowed down by 10% during the same time period. 



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-full"><a href="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Antarctica_ice-piracy_Glacier-velocity-change_2005-2022_ESA_1m.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><img src="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Antarctica_ice-piracy_Glacier-velocity-change_2005-2022_ESA_1s.webp" alt="The image depicts the average change in velocity of multiple glaciers flowing into the Crosson and Dotson Ice Shelves in West Antarctica from 2005 to 2022. Credit: ESA" class="wp-image-1969732"/></a><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">The image depicts the average change in velocity of multiple glaciers flowing into the Crosson and Dotson Ice Shelves in West Antarctica from 2005 to 2022. Click image to enlarge. Credit: ESA</figcaption></figure>



This stood in stark contrast to nearby glaciers like Kohler East and Smith West, which sped up dramatically - by about 560 meters per year.



The slowdown puzzled scientists, until they looked at the ice flow patterns.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-kohler-west-and-kohler-east">Kohler West and Kohler East</h2>



“We think that the observed slowdown on Kohler West Glacier is due to the redirection of ice flow towards its neighbor - Kohler East," explained lead author Dr. Heather L. Selley from the <a href="https://www.leeds.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Leeds</a>.



"This is due to the large change in Kohler West’s surface slope, likely caused by the vastly different thinning rates on its neighboring <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/antarctic-glaciers-flow-faster-during-the-summer-time/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">glaciers</a>.” 



She added that because Kohler East’s ice stream is flowing and thinning faster as it travels, it absorbs, or ‘steals’ ice from Kohler West. 



"This is effectively an act of ‘ice piracy’, where ice flow is redirected from one glacier to another, and the accelerating glacier is essentially ‘thieving’ ice from its slowing neighbor,” explained Selley.



“We didn’t know ice streams could ‘steal’ ice from each over such a short period, so this is a fascinating discovery. It’s unprecedented as we're seeing this from satellite data and it’s happening at a rate of under 18 years, whereas we’ve always thought it was this extremely long, slow process,” she added.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-watching-ice-piracy-from-space">Watching ice piracy from space</h2>



To track this shift, the research team used satellite images and a technique that follows the movement of surface features like crevasses and rifts. 



They also incorporated data on ice thinning from the European Space Agency’s <a href="https://www.esa.int/Applications/Observing_the_Earth/FutureEO/CryoSat" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">CryoSat mission</a>.



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-full"><a href="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Antarctica_ice-piracy_speed-direction_Crosson-Dotson-Ice-Shelves_2015-2022_ESA_1m.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><img src="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Antarctica_ice-piracy_speed-direction_Crosson-Dotson-Ice-Shelves_2015-2022_ESA_1s.webp" alt="The image depicts the average speed and direction of multiple glaciers flowing into the Crosson and Dotson Ice Shelves in West Antarctica from 2015 to 2022. The arrows show change in direction of flow. Credit: ESA" class="wp-image-1969725"/></a><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">The image depicts the average speed and direction of multiple glaciers flowing into the Crosson and Dotson Ice Shelves in West Antarctica from 2015 to 2022. The arrows show change in direction of flow. Click image to enlarge. Credit: ESA</figcaption></figure>



Data was sourced from satellites operated by ESA, NASA, the Canadian Space Agency, and the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency.



“This study provides an interesting demonstration of ice piracy, where flow into one glacier gradually switches to flow into another glacier, as the ocean melts the grounding zone and re-configures ice flow,” said Pierre Dutrieux, climate researcher at the <a href="https://www.bas.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">British Antarctic Survey</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-why-does-any-of-this-matter">Why does any of this matter?</h2>



The research team looked into several factors that influence ice flow, including <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ocean-temperatures-are-rising-faster-than-expected-and-likely-to-accelerate/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ocean temperatures</a>, circulation changes, air temperature, and snowfall. 



They discovered that ice redirection is affecting the amount of ice reaching the floating ice shelves fed by these glaciers.



Two major ice shelves - the Crosson and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/antarctica-ice-shapes-never-seen-by-humans-dotson-ice-shelf-ran-submersible/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Dotson</a> - are already among the fastest-changing outlets in West Antarctica. 



Crosson spans roughly 40 miles (60 kilometers), and Dotson stretches about 30 miles (48 kilometers). Both are thinning and retreating at their grounding lines.



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-full"><a href="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Antarctica_ice-piracy_Crosson-Dotson-Ice-Shelves_map_ESA_1m.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><img src="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Antarctica_ice-piracy_Crosson-Dotson-Ice-Shelves_map_ESA_1s.webp" alt="The Crosson and Dotson Ice Shelves are situated in West Antarctica. These huge ice shelves are fed by numerous glaciers flowing towards the Amundsen Sea. Credit: ESA" class="wp-image-1969723"/></a><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">The Crosson and Dotson Ice Shelves are situated in West Antarctica. These huge ice shelves are fed by numerous glaciers flowing towards the Amundsen Sea. Click image to enlarge. Credit: ESA</figcaption></figure>



“The changes in flow direction have substantially altered the ice mass flux into Dotson and Crosson Ice Shelves, likely playing an important role in maintaining Dotson and accelerating the deterioration of Crosson," explained Professor Anna Hogg, co-author and Professor of Earth Observation at the University of Leeds.



“This suggests that ice flow redirection is an important new process in contemporary <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ice-sheet-fracture-sets-a-speed-record-in-antarctica/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ice sheet dynamics</a>, which is required to understand present-day structural change in glaciers and the future evolution of these systems.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ice-piracy-rising-seas-global-impacts">Ice piracy, rising seas, global impacts</h2>



The stakes are high. Sea levels are already rising due to climate change, and over 410 million people could be affected by coastal flooding by the year 2100. <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/global-sea-levels-spiked-dramatically-in-2023/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Global sea levels</a> have increased by more than 10 centimeters over the past decade.



“This new study highlights the unique ability of satellites to provide both the temporal and spatial coverage required to assess change in the polar regions,” remarked Dr. Martin Wearing, ESA Digital Twin Earth Scientist and Polar Science Cluster Coordinator.



Using data from Copernicus Sentinel-1 and ESA's Earth Explorer CryoSat, the team has revealed the complex evolution of ice flow in part of West Antarctica over the past few decades. 



Understanding these changing dynamics and what drives them is crucial for improved projections of future ice-sheet change and contributions to sea-level rise.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-does-it-all-mean">What does it all mean?</h2>



To sum it all up, the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/antarctic-ice-sheet-past-present-and-future/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Antarctic ice sheet</a> - once thought to be sluggish and stable over millennia - is changing much faster than we realized, and in unexpected ways. 



This discovery of "ice piracy" shows that glaciers can dynamically interact, competing for ice and rerouting flow like rivers shifting course, which completely reshapes how we model future sea-level rise.



If one glacier can weaken another by stealing its ice, entire ice systems may destabilize quicker than predicted, feeding more ice into the ocean and raising sea levels. 



In plain terms: Antarctica isn’t just melting - it’s reorganizing itself in ways that could have big consequences for coastal cities around the world.



-----



The study brought together experts from the University of Leeds, the <a href="https://www.bas.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">British Antarctic Survey</a>, and the UK Centre for Polar Observation and Modelling (<a href="https://cpom.org.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">CPOM</a>), which is led from <a href="https://www.northumbria.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Northumbria University</a>. 



The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://tc.copernicus.org/articles/19/1725/2025/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">The Cryosphere</a>.



-----



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



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



-----

Ice piracy: Antarctic glacier discovered 'stealing' ice from its neighbor, and that's not a good thing

A new phenomenon dubbed "ice piracy" is unfolding in the frigid wilderness of West Antarctica, where one glacier appears to be stealing ice from its neighbor. This unusual behavior - once believed to take hundreds or even thousands of years - has now been recorded happening in under two decades. Scientists from the University of Leeds, working with international collaborators, have used high-resolution satellite data to reveal that a fast-moving glacier is redirecting ice flow away from its slower neighbor. This surprising event is changing how scientists...

Global temperature records have soared to unsettling highs, sparking justifiable concerns among climate watchers. Observers note that these extreme readings may represent the start of a warmer era rather than an isolated spike.



The Paris Agreement set an average temperature increase of 1.5 degrees Celsius (2.7 degrees Fahrenheit) above pre-industrial levels as a critical limit for controlling climate damage. 



Early signals hint that we may be inching toward this threshold, raising questions about whether we can protect ecosystems from escalating <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/astonishing-global-heat-in-january-2025-defied-climate-expectations/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">climate impacts</a>.



William Ripple, a professor at <a href="https://oregonstate.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Oregon State University</a>, emphasized the human toll of creeping temperature increases.



“Every fraction of a degree beyond this level translates into more extreme weather, biodiversity loss, and human suffering,” said Ripple.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-why-1-5-degrees-is-a-big-deal">Why 1.5 degrees is a big deal</h2>



Crossing 1.5 °C above pre-industrial temperatures goes beyond a mere statistical marker. 



It reveals how anthropogenic warming can transform local and regional <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/2024-confirmed-as-earths-hottest-year-in-recorded-history/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">climates</a> in ways that directly affect public health, food security, and infrastructure.



Researchers warn that floods, extreme storms, and prolonged heat waves become more frequent as greenhouse gases accumulate. 



Slow changes, such as sea level rise, can also endanger cities along vulnerable coastlines.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-mounting-economic-costs">Mounting economic costs</h2>



Climate-related hazards carry a steep financial toll for households, businesses, and government agencies. Reinsurance firm <a href="https://www.swissre.com/press-release/Hurricanes-severe-thunderstorms-and-floods-drive-insured-losses-above-USD-100-billion-for-5th-consecutive-year-says-Swiss-Re-Institute/f8424512-e46b-4db7-a1b1-ad6034306352" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Swiss Re</a> estimated that natural disasters exceeded US$135 billion in damage around the world in 2024.



Such losses strain global supply chains, complicate insurance coverage, and threaten property values in high-risk zones. 



Some economists believe the costs of recovery will increase even further if greenhouse gas emissions continue unchecked.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-signs-from-short-term-data">Signs from short-term data</h2>



One warm year on the thermometer does not necessarily confirm a long-term breach of the Paris Agreement. 



Weather oscillations, including strong El Niño events, can temporarily elevate global temperatures above the norm.



However, a study in <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41558-025-02246-9" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature Climate Change</a> indicates that once the first year hits a 1.5 °C increase, the planet is likely within a multi-decade window at that level. 



The authors of the study note that strong emission cuts could still slow or halt further <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/global-temperatures-increase-scientists-plan-slow-down-rising-heat/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">warming</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-heat-related-health-concerns">Heat-related health concerns</h2>



As temperatures rise, heat-related ailments become more common, and hospital visits spike during severe heat waves. 



The threat also extends to biodiversity, as many species cannot adapt quickly to shifting temperature and precipitation patterns.



Marine ecosystems, including coral reefs, are especially sensitive to even slight <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/un-the-world-is-on-track-for-a-catastrophic-level-of-global-warming/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">temperature changes</a>. 



Some reefs can recover from moderate bleaching events, but repeated stress often leads to permanent damage and loss of marine life.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-global-temperature-risks">Global temperature risks</h2>



The <a href="https://www.ipcc.ch/sr15/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">IPCC</a> highlights the importance of limiting temperature rise to a global average of 1.5 °C or slightly above. 



Even half a degree beyond this limit can trigger non-linear impacts that become increasingly difficult to reverse.



Policy analysts often stress that climate goals work best when governments adopt clear targets with tangible deadlines. 



If international cooperation lags, the pace of warming could outstrip efforts to adapt and mitigate.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-call-for-faster-action">A call for faster action</h2>



“Unless rapid action is taken, 2024 will be remembered not as an anomaly, but as the beginning of a new climate era - one defined by escalating risks,” said Ripple.



Researchers note that the use of renewables, clean transportation, and sustainable agricultural practices can curb emissions swiftly.&nbsp;



Other experts caution that delayed efforts might lock in further warming, creating a loop of intensified disasters and greater economic strain. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-global-temperature-solutions-exist">Global temperature solutions exist</h2>



A second study published in Nature Climate Change supports the idea that once temperatures breach 1.5 °C, more permanent exceedance may occur sooner than expected.



Some policymakers advocate carbon pricing and stronger efficiency standards to drive down emissions. 



Civil society groups, meanwhile, emphasize grassroots initiatives that help communities adapt and reduce fossil fuel dependence.



Local governments in coastal regions are reinforcing sea walls and updating building codes. Inland areas face different trials, such as droughts, wildfires, and shifting agricultural zones.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-choices-today-will-shape-the-future">Choices today will shape the future</h2>



Experts agree that the next few years could determine whether 1.5 °C becomes our new normal. If <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/arctic-meltdown-is-accelerating-global-warming-already-changing-earth-in-unimaginable-ways/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">emissions</a> continue to rise, adaptation costs will likely become a growing burden on national budgets.



Yet, optimism remains that targeted policies, technological breakthroughs, and public engagement can keep warming in check. 



Whether or not this happens depends on collective action and bold leadership at every level of society.



Signs of crossing the 1.5 °C threshold should not trigger despair, but they do demand urgency. Choices made today about energy, transportation, and resource use will shape conditions for decades.



Communities worldwide stand at a critical juncture between decisive intervention and escalating risk. The ultimate outcome rests on how quickly we act in the face of rising temperatures.



The study is published in <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41558-025-02246-9" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature Climate Change</a>.



-----



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



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



-----

Have global temperatures breached the 1.5°C point of no return?

Global temperature records have soared to unsettling highs, sparking justifiable...

Glaciers have long been a crucial part of Earth's climate system, acting as reservoirs of freshwater and influencing global sea levels. However, recent studies reveal an alarming trend - glaciers are melting at an unprecedented rate and losing vast amounts of ice.



This loss not only threatens water supplies in many regions but also accelerates the rise of sea levels, putting coastal communities at risk.



A major international study involving 35 research teams has provided new insights into the extent of glacier loss over the past two decades. 



The findings paint a troubling picture of rapid ice depletion across the world, with significant consequences for both local and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/melting-glaciers-are-reshaping-landscapes-and-national-borders-around-the-world/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">global environments</a>.



The scale and speed of this transformation demand urgent attention from scientists, policymakers, and the global community.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-growing-pace-of-ice-loss">Growing pace of ice loss</h2>



Since the year 2000, glaciers outside of Greenland and Antarctica have collectively lost an average of 273 billion tons of ice per year. However, this loss has not remained constant.



Data shows a 36% increase in ice loss between 2012 and 2023 compared to the earlier period from 2000 to 2011. 



This acceleration suggests that glaciers are becoming more <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/astonishing-glacier-retreat-in-the-arctic-signals-climate-disaster/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">vulnerable to climate change</a>, with rising temperatures pushing them past critical thresholds.



In the year 2000, glaciers spanned a total area of 705,221 square kilometers (272,287 square miles) and held approximately 121,728 billion tons of ice. 



Over the past two decades, they have lost around 5% of their total volume. Some regions have experienced even greater losses, with Central Europe seeing a staggering 39% reduction in its glacier volume.



In contrast, glaciers in the Antarctic and Subantarctic islands have lost only 2% of their volume, highlighting the uneven impact of warming on different parts of the world.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-comparing-glacier-and-ice-sheet-loss">Comparing glacier and ice sheet loss</h2>



While much attention has been given to the melting of the Greenland and Antarctic ice sheets, the new research shows that glaciers are losing ice at an even <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/over-half-of-the-worlds-glaciers-could-disappear-by-2100/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">faster rate</a>. 



The total glacier mass loss recorded during the study period was 18% higher than the loss from the Greenland Ice Sheet and more than double that of the Antarctic Ice Sheet. 



This data challenges previous assumptions that glaciers contribute less to rising sea levels than polar ice sheets.



The increased glacier melt has profound consequences. As ice disappears, it not only reduces freshwater availability in some regions but also releases vast amounts of water into the oceans. 



This process directly contributes to sea-level rise, intensifying the risks faced by low-lying coastal cities and island nations.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-glambie-glacier-monitoring">Glambie glacier monitoring</h2>



To track these rapid changes, scientists turned to an ambitious research initiative called the Glacier Mass Balance Intercomparison Exercise, or Glambie. 



This global effort, coordinated by the World Glacier Monitoring Service (<a href="https://wgms.ch" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">WGMS</a>) at the <a href="https://www.uzh.ch/en.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Zurich</a>, brings together data from multiple sources to create a unified picture of glacier mass loss.



“We compiled 233 estimates of regional glacier mass change from about 450 data contributors organised in 35 research teams,” explained Michael Zemp, who co-led the study.



Glambie integrates information from field measurements as well as satellite data from missions such as the <a href="https://terra.nasa.gov/about/terra-instruments/aster" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">US Terra/ASTER</a>, <a href="https://icesat-2.gsfc.nasa.gov" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ICESat-2</a>, the US-German <a href="https://grace.jpl.nasa.gov/mission/grace/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">GRACE</a>, the German TanDEM-X, and ESA’s <a href="https://www.esa.int/Applications/Observing_the_Earth/FutureEO/CryoSat" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">CryoSat</a>. 



By combining optical, radar, laser, and gravimetry observations, scientists have created the most detailed annual record of glacier mass changes between 2000 and 2023.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-glacier-ice-melt-threatens-water-supplies">Glacier ice melt threatens water supplies</h2>



Glacier melt is not just an environmental concern - it is a direct threat to freshwater availability.



Many communities depend on glacier-fed rivers for drinking water, agriculture, and hydropower. As glaciers shrink, their ability to provide a stable water supply diminishes, leaving millions of people vulnerable to shortages.



“To put this in perspective, the 273 billion tons of ice lost annually amounts to what the entire global population consumes in 30 years, assuming three liters per person and day,” noted glaciologist Prof. Zemp.



The loss of glacier ice is particularly concerning in regions such as Central Asia and the Central Andes, where glaciers play a crucial role in seasonal water supply. 



During the warm and dry months, glacier runoff sustains river flows, ensuring communities and ecosystems receive enough water.



Without this natural reservoir, many regions could face severe drought conditions in the coming decades.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-glaciers-ice-loss-and-rising-seas">Glaciers, ice loss and rising seas</h2>



Beyond regional water concerns, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/doomsday-glacier-may-collapse-sooner-than-we-thought/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">glacier</a> melt is a significant driver of global sea-level rise. 



Between 2000 and 2023, glaciers lost a total of 6,542 billion tonnes of ice, contributing 18 millimeters to rising ocean levels. 



The rate of ice loss has surged from 231 billion tons per year in the early 2000s to 314 billion tons per year in the past decade.



Glaciers now rank as the second-largest contributor to rising sea levels, surpassed only by ocean warming. 



They contribute more to sea-level rise than both the Greenland and Antarctic ice sheets combined. This growing contribution underscores the urgency of addressing glacier melt in climate policy discussions.



“Glaciers are vital freshwater resources, especially for local communities in Central Asia and the Central Andes, where glaciers dominate runoff during warm and dry seasons,” said glaciologist Inés Dussaillant.



“But when it comes to sea-level rise, the Arctic and Antarctic regions, with their much larger glacier areas, are the key players. However, almost one-quarter of the glacier contribution to sea-level rise originates from Alaska.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-advancing-satellite-monitoring-for-future-research">Advancing satellite monitoring for future research</h2>



The findings from this research demonstrate the value of long-term satellite monitoring. While satellites were not initially designed to track glacier loss, scientists have successfully adapted them to measure changes in ice volume over time.



“The research is the result of sustained efforts by the community and by space agencies over many years, to exploit a variety of satellites that were not initially specifically designed for the task of monitoring glaciers globally,” said Noel Gourmelen, who co-led the study.



Future missions such as Europe’s Copernicus <a href="https://www.esa.int/Applications/Observing_the_Earth/Copernicus/CRISTAL_prepares_to_sparkle#" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">CRISTAL mission</a> will build on the work of ESA’s CryoSat, ensuring that glacier monitoring remains a top priority. 



By improving data collection, these missions will help researchers better understand ice loss trends and their implications for global water systems.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-need-for-immediate-action">Need for immediate action</h2>



The study was funded primarily through ESA’s <a href="https://www.esa.int/Applications/Observing_the_Earth/FutureEO" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">FutureEO programme</a>, with additional support from the International Association for <a href="https://cryosphericsciences.org" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Cryospheric Sciences</a> and various research institutions. Stephen Plummer, ESA Earth Observation Applications scientist, highlighted the importance of the research:



“We take great pride in supporting this vital research through our ESA Science for Society programme element as it brings together, for the first time, multiple estimates of glacier mass loss from different satellites and in situ observations through a community-driven approach," stated Plummer.



“These findings are not only crucial for advancing our scientific understanding of global glacier changes, but also provide a valuable baseline to help regions address the challenges of managing scarce freshwater resources and contribute to developing effective mitigation strategies to combat rising sea level," Plummer concluded.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-critical-moment-for-glaciers">A critical moment for glaciers</h2>



The release of this study is particularly timely as 2025 marks the United Nations’ International Year of Glaciers’ Preservation. 



The coming decade, designated as the Decade of Action for Cryospheric Sciences, will be crucial for addressing glacier melt and its far-reaching consequences.



With continued scientific research, improved satellite monitoring, and decisive global action, there is still hope for mitigating the worst effects of glacier loss. 



However, time is running out. The fate of the world’s glaciers - and the millions who rely on them - depends on the choices made today.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41586-024-08545-z" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature</a>.



-----



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



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



-----

Glacier ice melting continues to accelerate, causing huge global problems

Glaciers have long been a crucial part of Earth's climate...

Health is often thought to be written in our genes, but a new study suggests otherwise. Researchers from Oxford Population Health have uncovered compelling evidence that environment plays a far greater role in determining health and longevity than genetic predisposition. 



The experts analyzed data from nearly half a million UK Biobank participants to examine how environmental influences compare with genetic risk scores for major diseases.



The findings challenge the common belief that genetic makeup determines <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/forming-healthy-habits-takes-much-longer-than-21-days/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">health outcomes</a>. Instead, lifestyle choices, socioeconomic conditions, and early-life exposures appear to shape the risk of developing diseases and experiencing premature death. 



This research provides fresh insight into how our environment affects biological aging and highlights opportunities to improve public health through changes in policy and personal habits.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-affects-health-and-aging">What affects health and aging?</h2>



The study showed that environmental factors explained 17 percent of the variation in mortality risk, while genetic predisposition accounted for less than 2 percent.



The researchers assessed 164 environmental factors and their effects on 22 major diseases, revealing that lifestyle and living conditions have a much stronger influence on long-term health than previously thought.



Among the key environmental factors identified, smoking, socioeconomic status, physical activity, and living conditions played the most significant roles in mortality and biological aging. 



The research also showed that early-life exposures, such as childhood body weight and maternal smoking, have long-term consequences, affecting <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/experts-say-this-is-the-best-fruit-to-eat-for-a-healthier-liver/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">health</a> and longevity decades later.



“Our research demonstrates the profound health impact of exposures that can be changed either by individuals or through policies to improve socioeconomic conditions, reduce smoking, or promote physical activity,” noted Professor Cornelia van Duijn, senior author of the study.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-role-of-lifestyle-in-health-and-aging">Role of lifestyle in health and aging</h2>



The study examined how various lifestyle choices contribute to disease risk. Smoking emerged as a major factor, being linked to 21 different diseases. 



Socioeconomic factors, including household income, home ownership, and employment status, influenced 19 diseases. Physical activity also played a critical role, with associations found in 17 diseases.



Importantly, the research indicated that 23 of the identified environmental factors are modifiable, meaning that changes in behavior or policy could significantly reduce the risk of age-related diseases and premature death. 



The study also revealed that environmental influences had a greater effect on diseases affecting the lungs, heart, and liver, whereas genetic factors played a more prominent role in conditions such as dementias and breast cancer.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-measuring-biological-aging">Measuring biological aging</h2>



To assess how environmental exposures accelerate aging, the researchers used a novel measurement tool known as the “aging clock.” 



This method tracks biological aging by analyzing blood protein levels, providing a more precise way to determine how fast an individual is aging.



“Our exposome approach allowed us to quantify the relative <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/eating-less-could-extend-your-lifespan/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">contributions</a> of the environment and genetics to aging, providing the most comprehensive overview to date of the environmental and lifestyle factors driving aging and premature death,” noted Dr. Austin Argentieri, lead author of the study.



This technique had already been validated in studies involving large cohorts from China and Finland, demonstrating its reliability in detecting age-related changes. 



The findings reinforce the idea that aging is not solely dictated by genetics but is significantly influenced by external factors, many of which can be adjusted to improve <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/eating-avocado-every-day-diet-quality-can-add-years-to-life-but-this-fruit-has-enemies/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">health outcomes</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-poorer-environments-increase-health-risks">Poorer environments increase health risks</h2>



One of the most striking aspects of the research is the impact of socioeconomic conditions on health and longevity. People with lower incomes, insecure housing, or unstable employment faced significantly higher risks of developing chronic illnesses and dying prematurely.



Professor Bryan Williams, Chief Scientific and Medical Officer at the <a href="https://www.bhf.org.uk" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">British Heart Foundation</a>, stressed the urgent need for systemic change. 



“Your income, postcode, and background shouldn’t determine your chances of living a long and healthy life. But this pioneering study reinforces that this is the reality for far too many people,” he stated.



The study highlights the need for stronger public health policies aimed at reducing socioeconomic disparities.



Addressing issues such as income inequality, access to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-fruits-and-vegetables-improve-heart-health/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">healthcare</a>, and education could have a profound effect on overall health outcomes, giving more people the opportunity to lead longer, healthier lives.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-improving-population-health">Improving population health</h2>



Although individual lifestyle factors and environmental exposures each contribute to disease risk, their combined impact is even greater. The study found that the cumulative effect of these influences over a lifetime plays a major role in determining health outcomes. 



This concept, known as the exposome, highlights how long-term exposure to multiple environmental factors collectively shapes aging and mortality.



This research paves the way for new strategies aimed at improving population health by identifying key environmental factors that contribute to common age-related diseases. 



By understanding how different exposures interact, scientists and policymakers can develop more targeted interventions to reduce health risks.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-linking-environment-to-major-health-risks">Linking environment to major health risks</h2>



Professor van Duijn emphasized the need for a more comprehensive approach to studying environmental health. 



“Studies on environmental health have tended to focus on individual exposures based on a specific hypothesis. While this approach has seen many successes, the method has not always yielded reproducible and reliable findings,” she noted.



Instead, the researchers used a broader approach, analyzing all available exposures without preconceived hypotheses. This method allowed them to uncover the most significant drivers of disease and mortality, offering a clearer picture of how different factors contribute to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ditch-the-diet-trends-for-a-healthier-relationship-with-food/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">health outcomes</a>.



“We have made a big leap forward in understanding how to provide accurate evidence on the causes and consequences of age-related diseases by combining novel computational methods with clinical and epidemiological knowledge to explore the interplay between multiple exposures," said Professor van Duijn.



"In an ever-changing environment, it is critical that we combine these techniques with novel advances in smart technology to monitor lifestyle and environment, as well as with biological data, to understand the impact of the environment over time.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-rethinking-health-and-aging">Rethinking health and aging </h2>



The study’s findings provide a strong case for shifting focus toward environmental and lifestyle interventions to improve health outcomes. 



There is still much to learn about how factors like diet, exposure to pollutants, and emerging infectious diseases affect long-term health. Researchers must continue investigating how different populations are impacted by environmental and genetic interactions.



“There are a lot of questions still to be answered related to diet, lifestyle, and exposure to new pathogens (such as bird flu and COVID-19) and chemicals (think of pesticides and plastics), and the impact of environmental and genetic factors in different populations,” said Professor van Duijn.



By shedding light on the profound impact of environmental factors on aging and disease, this study presents an opportunity to rethink how health is managed on both personal and policy levels. 



With greater emphasis on reducing harmful exposures and improving living conditions, society has the potential to extend healthy lifespans and reduce premature mortality.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41591-024-03483-9" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature Medicine</a>.



-----



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



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



-----

Beyond genetics: The biggest factors that influence health and aging

Health is often thought to be written in our genes,...

The chemicals in sunscreens are increasingly present in the ocean, but much about their impact on marine life remains poorly understood. This is the conclusion of a new study from Plymouth Marine Laboratory and the University of Plymouth.&nbsp;



With sunscreen now integral not only to health care but also to various products - ranging from personal care to industrial materials - experts worry about the large-scale release of these <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/common-acid-in-our-skin-could-be-a-natural-sunscreen/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">compounds</a> into coastal waters and the long-term consequences for aquatic ecosystems.



“This review highlights the mindboggling range of sunscreen-derived chemicals that we know are released into coastal marine environments – and demonstrates that our understanding of the effects of these toxic compounds on marine organisms is surprisingly limited,” said co-author Frances Hopkins, a marine biogeochemist at the <a href="https://pml.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Plymouth Marine Laboratory</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-sunscreen-pollution-enters-the-ocean">How sunscreen pollution enters the ocean</h2>



Sunscreens use UV filters - either organic (chemical-based) or inorganic (mineral-based) - to absorb or scatter ultraviolet rays. Beyond sunscreens, such filters are added to various items including shampoos, moisturizers, lipsticks, plastics, rubber, paint, and cement, helping protect them from solar damage.



Because of modern lifestyles, these compounds inevitably find their way into marine environments through direct and indirect exposure.&nbsp;



Direct exposure occurs when people swimming or diving carry sunscreen-laden water off their skin directly into the sea. Indirect exposure happens when residue is washed off during showers, laundering towels, and even through urine.&nbsp;



Additionally, recycled wastewater plays a role, as some agricultural practices use treated water or sludge, which can deposit UV filter contaminants into soil and eventually run off into rivers and coasts.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-enormous-scale-of-sunscreen-pollution">Enormous scale of sunscreen pollution</h2>



Traditional wastewater treatment cannot effectively remove many UV filter chemicals. Data show organic UV filters in 95% of wastewater effluents and 86% of surface waters worldwide.&nbsp;



They have been found not only in tourist-heavy beach areas but also in remote regions like Antarctica and the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/trace-amounts-of-sunscreen-found-at-the-north-pole/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Arctic</a>, highlighting their pervasive reach.



As global sunscreen sales are projected to reach $13.64 billion by 2026, researchers estimate 6,000-14,000 tons of UV filters wash into coral reef zones every year.&nbsp;



Many filters, especially benzophenones, have been deemed persistent, bioaccumulative, and toxic. Benzophenone-3, in particular, is on the <a href="https://echa.europa.eu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">European Chemical Agency</a>’s watch list as a potential hormone disruptor.



“There are increasing amounts and varieties of sunscreens entering the environment, and contaminants occur in all possible combinations,” said Awadhesh Jha, a professor in genetic toxicology and ecotoxicology at the <a href="https://www.plymouth.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Plymouth </a>and the study’s senior author.&nbsp;



“It is therefore imperative that we understand their bioaccumulation potential across the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/oceans-twilight-zone-stabilizes-the-marine-food-chain/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">food chain</a>, and the mechanisms through which they act at molecular and cellular levels, alone and in combination with other stressors.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-complex-chemistry-with-unknown-effects">Complex chemistry with unknown effects</h2>



A single sunscreen can contain three to eight UV filter compounds, adding up to 15% of the product’s mass. Organic filters - up to 55 different types exist - work by absorbing UV radiation, while inorganic filters like titanium dioxide (TiO₂) and zinc oxide (ZnO) reflect it.&nbsp;



Each compound has different properties, toxicities, and solubilities, complicating efforts to understand how these chemicals behave once in the ocean.



The study, published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.marpolbul.2025.117627" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Marine Pollution Bulletin</a>, involved a review of over 110 publications related to sunscreen, UV filters, and their ecological or toxicological impacts.&nbsp;



The researchers note that at least 25% of a sunscreen’s UV filters wash off during swimming, and a single busy beach can see up to 35 kilograms of sunscreen deposited into the water per day.



“We are essentially sitting on a ticking time bomb,” said study co-author Mahasweta Saha, a marine chemical ecologist at Plymouth Marine Laboratory. “It is crucial to exercise caution in introducing new substances, as they could exacerbate existing challenges.”



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



Despite broad commercial use, little is known about the long-term ecotoxicological effects of these compounds, especially regarding their potential to bioaccumulate in the food chain.&nbsp;



Marine ecosystems already face pressures such as <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/record-ocean-warming-in-2024-is-a-warning-for-our-planet/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ocean warming</a>, acidification, marine heatwaves, and eutrophication. The addition of poorly understood chemicals could worsen the strain on marine organisms.



“It is therefore imperative that we understand their bioaccumulation potential across the food chain, and the mechanisms through which they act,” Jha emphasized. 



This includes gauging effects at the molecular level - understanding if they disrupt hormones, reproductive cycles, or growth - and how multiple stressors might interact to amplify harm.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-precautionary-measures-are-needed">Precautionary measures are needed</h2>



The scientists call for coordinated, science-based policy actions to address the threats of sunscreen pollution.



They recommend improved wastewater treatments to remove UV filters, the development of biodegradable sunscreens, and enhanced monitoring to track sunscreen-derived pollutants in global coastal areas.



The study further recommends adopting a precautionary approach, acknowledging that while sunscreens protect human health, they also risk harming fragile marine life including corals, fish, and other sea creatures vital to the ecosystem.



Thus, as oceans become repositories for countless chemical compounds, unraveling the complex interactions among UV filters is critical. Failing to act could intensify existing stresses on marine habitats, with possible ramifications for seafood safety and the broader health of our planet’s waters.



-----



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



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



-----

Sunscreen pollution is invading the ocean - with unknown consequences 

The chemicals in sunscreens are increasingly present in the ocean,...

The natural world has long adapted to Earth’s changing climate, but there are limits to what living organisms can withstand. Plants, in particular, play a crucial role in maintaining the planet’s balance by absorbing carbon dioxide and releasing oxygen. 



However, new research suggests that rising temperatures may push <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/plants-release-carbon-faster-than-we-expected/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">plants</a> beyond their limits, altering their ability to regulate the environment.



Scientists have traditionally believed that plants conserve water by closing their pores during extreme heat. 



But Dr. Sean Michaletz, a botany professor at the <a href="https://www.ubc.ca" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of British Columbia</a>, has uncovered a surprising reality.



His research suggests that plants lose more water than expected, potentially weakening their role in climate regulation. If these findings are accurate, they could reshape how we predict future warming.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-plants-help-control-carbon-and-water-cycles">Plants help control carbon and water cycles</h2>



<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/plants-absorb-31-more-co2-than-previously-estimated/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Plants</a> are essential to life on Earth. Through photosynthesis, they take in carbon dioxide, convert it into energy, and release oxygen. 



This process allows them to function as a carbon sink, absorbing greenhouse gases that would otherwise contribute to global warming.



In addition to their role in carbon absorption, plants regulate the water cycle. They release water vapor into the atmosphere, which helps cool the planet and maintain humidity levels. 



However, as temperatures rise, this delicate balance may be shifting in unexpected ways.



Dr. Michaletz’s research suggests that rising heat forces plants to lose more water through their cuticle, a waxy layer on their leaves. 



Unlike their pores, which can close to prevent water loss, the cuticle remains open. The thinner the cuticle, the more water a plant loses.



This process could reduce photosynthesis, limit carbon absorption, and even turn plants into carbon sources under extreme conditions.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-hidden-risk-of-plant-water-loss">Hidden risk of plant water loss</h2>



For decades, scientists assumed that plants primarily lost water through their pores, which could close during dry or hot conditions. 



This belief shaped climate models and water cycle predictions. However, new findings indicate that cuticle-based water loss may be more significant than previously thought.



“When temperatures rise, plants lose more water through their cuticle than through their pores,” explained Dr. Michaletz. “This limits their ability to absorb <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/warming-soils-release-more-carbon-than-plants-can-replace/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">carbon dioxide</a> and reduces their role as a carbon sink.”



In extreme heat, plants may struggle to maintain photosynthesis, absorbing less carbon while continuing to release water. 



If temperatures climb too high, forests and other ecosystems could shift from storing carbon to emitting it. This shift would accelerate climate change and disrupt global ecosystems.



Dr. Michaletz estimates that a single medium-sized leaf exposed to 50°C could lose about one-third of a teaspoon of water per day through its cuticle. 



Scaled up to an entire forest, this effect could significantly alter global water and carbon cycles.



Current climate models may underestimate this impact, leading scientists to reassess predictions for future warming.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-extreme-heat-can-make-plants-stop-working">Extreme heat can make plants stop working</h2>



Not all plants respond to heat in the same way. Some species can tolerate extreme temperatures, while others begin to suffer as soon as conditions become too warm. 



A study conducted in Vancouver examined 200 plant species to determine their heat tolerance.



“Our research suggests that photosynthesis starts to break down between 40 and 51°C,” said Dr. Michaletz. “During the 2021 heat dome, temperatures soared to 49.6°C, pushing <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/earths-carbon-sinks-are-being-pushed-to-their-limits/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">plants</a> to their limits.”



If temperatures continue rising, plants could reach a critical breaking point. The research team estimates that 60°C may be the maximum temperature plants can survive. 



Beyond this threshold, proteins inside plant cells break down, leading to irreversible damage and eventual death.



While some desert and tropical plants have evolved to withstand extreme heat, most species do not have the same resilience.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-plants-may-turn-into-carbon-sources">Plants may turn into carbon sources</h2>



Understanding how heat affects plant life is essential for predicting climate change. If plants reach their temperature limits, they may stop <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/plants-absorb-31-more-co2-than-previously-estimated/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">absorbing carbon dioxide</a> and instead release it, contributing to warming rather than slowing it.



“Globally, researchers are working to determine the ‘tipping point’ where Earth’s vegetation releases more carbon dioxide than it absorbs, switching from a carbon sink to a carbon source,” said Dr. Michaletz.



“Our estimates suggest this could happen around 30°C, though key uncertainties remain - especially how microclimates and water availability affect photosynthesis under extreme heat.”



With Earth’s average temperature already at 16°C, this threshold may be closer than expected. If plant ecosystems begin releasing more carbon than they store, global temperatures could rise even faster than current models predict.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-lessons-from-biosphere-2">Lessons from Biosphere 2</h2>



The relationship between plants and the environment has long fascinated scientists, leading to experiments that test how vegetation responds to extreme conditions. 



One of the most ambitious projects in ecological research was <a href="https://biosphere2.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Biosphere 2</a>, an enclosed facility designed to simulate an independent ecosystem.



As a postdoctoral researcher, Dr. Michaletz worked at Biosphere 2, which was originally created as a self-sustaining environment. 



Scientists, known as biospherians, were sealed inside to see if humans could survive without external oxygen or supplies.



“Biosphere 2 later transitioned into a research and public education center, where I studied how high <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/small-climate-changes-have-drastic-effects-on-tropical-plants/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">temperatures affect plants</a> in its experimental rainforest,” said Dr. Michaletz.



The original experiment revealed unexpected challenges. Carbon dioxide levels rose due to chemical reactions within the facility, and prolonged isolation caused psychological stress among participants. 



These unexpected results highlighted the complexities of maintaining an artificial environment.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-close-are-we-to-the-limit">How close are we to the limit?</h2>



Plants have survived shifts in climate for millions of years, but they are not invincible. 



They have upper limits, set by the physical laws governing their biological processes. While some plants have adapted to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/warming-climates-force-plants-to-compete-with-each-other/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">survive heat stress</a>, many others cannot withstand prolonged extreme temperatures.



Scientists are now working to pinpoint exactly when and where vegetation will begin to struggle under rising global temperatures. 



Some recent measurements suggest that <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/planting-diverse-crops-traps-carbon-and-boosts-soil-health/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">plants</a> may already be approaching dangerous heat thresholds.



If global warming continues unchecked, plants may lose their ability to regulate the carbon in the environment, triggering a chain reaction of climate feedback loops.



The question now is not whether plants will be affected by rising temperatures, but how soon the consequences will be felt. 



Understanding these limits is crucial for predicting the future of Earth’s ecosystems and the role plants will play in a rapidly warming world.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://nph.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/nph.20346" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">New Phytologist</a>.



-----



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



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



-----

Plants may stop absorbing carbon if temperatures continue to rise

The natural world has long adapted to Earth’s changing climate,...

Plastic waste is one of the biggest threats to marine ecosystems today. Every year, millions of tons of plastic enter the ocean, creating massive pollution problems and killing marine organisms. This waste does not simply disappear.



Instead, it breaks down into microplastics, which spread through the water and harm marine life. Scientists have long searched for ways to reduce the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/plastics-supercharge-toxin-absorption-in-plants-and-humans/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">impact of plastic pollution</a>, but most existing solutions struggle to degrade plastic efficiently.



Now, researchers at the University of Hawai‘i (<a href="https://manoa.hawaii.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">UH</a>) at Mānoa have made a remarkable discovery. They have identified marine fungi that are capable of breaking down plastic. Even more impressively, they found that some of these fungi can be "trained" to consume plastic faster.



The research could initiate new ways of cleaning up the ocean and tackling one of the most pressing environmental challenges of our time.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-plastic-waste-and-its-lasting-impact">Plastic waste and its lasting impact</h2>



Plastics are widely used because they are durable, lightweight, and cheap. These same qualities, however, make them a persistent <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/plastic-particles-found-in-99-of-tested-seafood-samples/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">environmental hazard</a>. 



Unlike organic materials, plastic does not decompose naturally. Instead, sunlight, heat, and physical forces break it down into smaller pieces. These microplastics then spread throughout the ocean, entering the food chain and accumulating in marine organisms.



Plastics can also release harmful chemicals, such as phthalates and bisphenol A, which disrupt marine ecosystems. Animals often mistake plastic for food, and its ingestion leads to malnutrition and starvation.



With an estimated 1,051,200 garbage trucks' worth of plastic entering the ocean each year, finding a way to eliminate this pollution is crucial.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-untapped-potential-of-marine-fungi">Untapped potential of marine fungi</h2>



“Plastic in the environment today is extremely long-lived, and is nearly impossible to degrade using existing technologies,” said Ronja Steinbach, who led this research as a marine biology undergraduate student in the UH Mānoa <a href="https://natsci.manoa.hawaii.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">College of Natural Sciences</a>. 



“Our research highlights marine fungi as a promising and largely untapped group to investigate for new ways to recycle and remove plastic from nature. Very few people study fungi in the ocean, and we estimated that fewer than one percent of marine fungi are currently described."



Fungi are known for their ability to break down tough organic materials. Many species can digest substances that other organisms cannot, such as wood and chitin. 



However, most studies on fungi and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/plastic-treaty-is-a-historic-opportunity-to-stop-a-human-health-crisis/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">plastic</a> degradation have focused on land-based species. The UH Mānoa team wanted to see if marine fungi had similar capabilities.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-testing-marine-fungi-for-plastic-degradation">Testing marine fungi for plastic degradation</h2>



The researchers collected fungi from various sources, including sand, seaweed, corals, and sponges in Hawai‘i’s nearshore waters. 



They then tested these fungi to see if they could break down plastic, specifically polyurethane, a common material found in foams, adhesives, and medical products.



“Fungi possess a superpower for eating things that other organisms can’t digest (like wood, or chitin), so we tested the fungi in our collection for their ability to digest plastic,” said Professor Anthony Amend from Pacific Biosciences Research Center. 



Professor Amend heads up the lab where Steinbach conducted the research with marine biology graduate studen Syrena Whitner.



The researchers placed polyurethane in petri dishes - along with various types of fungi - and observed their interactions. Some fungi showed a clear ability to degrade the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/scientists-discover-how-microplastics-accumulate-in-coral-reefs/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">plastic</a>.



The team then took the fastest-growing fungi and exposed them to polyurethane over time to see if they could evolve to consume plastic even more efficiently.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-marine-fungi-show-rapid-adaptation">Marine fungi show rapid adaptation</h2>



The results of the experiment were astonishing. The fungi adapted quickly, with some increasing their feeding rates by 15% within just three months.



“We were shocked to find that more than 60% of the fungi we collected from the ocean had some ability to eat plastic and transform it into fungi,” said Steinbach. 



“We were also impressed to see how quickly fungi were able to adapt. It was very exciting to see that in just three months, a relatively short amount of time, some of the fungi were able to increase their feeding rates by as much as 15%.”



The findings suggest that marine fungi could play a significant role in breaking down plastic pollution. The speed at which some fungi adapted to eating plastic also raises hopes that further research could enhance their efficiency even more.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-hawaii-s-unique-role-in-plastic-research">Hawaii’s unique role in plastic research</h2>



Hawaii’s location in the North Pacific Subtropical Gyre makes it a prime spot for studying plastic pollution. Ocean currents bring plastic waste from all over the world to Hawai‘i’s shores.



Nearby, the Great Pacific Garbage Patch contains massive amounts of plastic debris, making it a major environmental concern.



Because of this, Hawaii serves as an ideal natural laboratory for researching plastic degradation. 



The fungi collected from these waters may have evolved unique abilities to break down plastic due to their constant exposure to pollution. This makes them valuable candidates for future biotechnological applications.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-expanding-the-research">Expanding the research</h2>



The UH Mānoa team is now looking to expand their research. They want to test whether these fungi can degrade other plastics, such as polyethylene and polyethylene terephthalate. 



These materials are even more resistant to decomposition and are some of the most common plastics found in the ocean.



Additionally, scientists are working to understand the molecular mechanisms behind fungi’s ability to break down plastic. By studying these processes at a cellular level, they hope to improve plastic degradation techniques.



The next step is to collaborate with other experts to develop practical solutions based on these findings.



“We hope to collaborate with engineers, chemists, and oceanographers who can leverage these findings into actual solutions to clean up our beaches and oceans,” said Steinbach.



If scientists can refine these fungal processes, they could potentially be used on a larger scale. Marine fungi could become a key tool for reducing <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/plastic-pollution-is-changing-the-entire-earth-system/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">plastic waste</a>, both in the ocean and on land.



The study was published in the journal <a href="https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/00275514.2024.2422598" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Mycologia</a>.



-----



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



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



-----

Marine fungi can be trained to degrade plastic pollution

Plastic waste is one of the biggest threats to marine...

Brake pad emissions have become a powerful but unsuspected source of air pollution, with recent studies revealing their possible health hazards.



Although diesel car emissions are well documented as harmful, a recent study has exposed an equally disturbing problem - the toxicity of brake pad dust.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-understanding-brake-pads-the-basics">Understanding brake pads - the basics</h2>



Brake pads are the unsung heroes of your car’s braking system. Every time you press the brake pedal, these small but mighty components create the friction needed to slow you down. 



They press against the brake rotor (or disc), generating enough resistance to stop the wheels from spinning. Over time, that constant friction wears them down, which is why you eventually need to replace them. 



Not all brake pads are the same, though. Some are made from organic materials like rubber and glass, while others use semi-metallic or ceramic compounds for better performance and durability.



Some brake pads contain copper, because it's great at dissipating heat and reducing brake fade. This is why manufacturers have traditionally included it in semi-metallic and ceramic brake pads, and it's also why brake pads cause <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/auto-emission-climate-policies-save-children-boost-economies/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">environmental harm</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-copper-in-brake-pads">Copper in brake pads</h2>



Researchers from the <a href="https://www.southampton.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Southampton</a> (UK) performed a comprehensive study that targeted microscopic particles that are released from different types of brake pads.



What they discovered was remarkable: some brake pads release particles that are more toxic than those contained in diesel exhaust.



Researchers determined the prime culprit for this toxicity - high concentrations of copper in some brake pads.



These small particles, when breathed in, can travel deep into the lungs, injuring sensitive cells and possibly leading to severe health consequences.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-non-exhaust-auto-emissions">"Non-exhaust" auto emissions</h2>



Although the risks of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/epa-set-to-implement-unprecedented-auto-pollution-limits/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">pollution from vehicles</a> are widely recognized, attention has commonly centered on exhaust emissions. 



Tires, road, and brake pad wear particles are usually not considered as sources of emissions, and the pollution arising from these factors is not monitored or regulated.



Now, these "non-exhaust" emissions have become the leading contributor to vehicle-related particulate matter (PM) in the U.K. and parts of Europe.



Among them, brake dust stands out as a major offender.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-hidden-pollution-from-electric-cars">Hidden pollution from electric cars</h2>



Lead author of the study, Dr. James Parkin, pointed out that the shift toward electric cars is pushing this problem into the limelight. 



"People generally associate pollution from cars as being from exhaust pipes and think of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/hidden-costs-electric-vehicle-tires-emit-20-more-pollution/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">electric vehicles</a> as having zero emissions. However, EVs still produce particulate matter due to friction and wear of the road, tires, and brakes," Dr. Parkin explained.



“We wanted to understand how different types of chemical composition of pads affect the toxicity of the particles emitted and what this might mean for the health of individuals.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-impact-of-pm2-5-on-human-lungs">Impact of PM2.5 on human lungs</h2>



The focus of this study was on the presence of the smallest particles, PM2.5 and below, which are 30 times smaller than the diameter of a human hair.



These tiny particles can pass beyond the upper respiratory tract and penetrate into the thin air sacs in the lungs, where the exchange of oxygen and carbon dioxide takes place.



These fine particles from various sources are linked with more than four million premature deaths per year worldwide.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-identifying-the-most-toxic-brake-pads">Identifying the most toxic brake pads</h2>



The researchers used special apparatus to collect brake pad <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/breast-cancer-incidence-linked-to-high-particulate-air-pollution/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">particulate matter</a>. 



The team then used lab samples of human lung cells and exposed them to this particulate matter to measure the effects, including inflammation and cell death.



The experiment showed that, of the four brake pad types tested (low metallic, semi-metallic, non-asbestos organic, and hybrid-ceramic), the non-asbestos organic pads were the most harmful.



They triggered inflammation and toxicity markers, making them more harmful to human lung cells than diesel exhaust particles.



Ceramic pads were the second most toxic. Interestingly, both non-asbestos organic and ceramic pads contain high concentrations of copper, and subsequent experiments with the copper removed found the particulate matter to be less <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/car-tires-shed-pollutants-that-are-especially-toxic-for-humans-and-wildlife/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">toxic</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-reducing-copper-used-in-auto-parts">Reducing copper used in auto parts</h2>



The team's findings, published in the journal Particle and Fibre Toxicology, suggest reducing <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/copper-industry-of-king-solomons-era-didnt-harm-the-environment/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">copper</a> content in brake pads could help alleviate some of the harmful effects of vehicle particulate matter.



"This research has important implications for health and future policy because, as we switch from diesel and petrol-powered cars to electric vehicles, non-exhaust particle emissions will remain," project supervisor Professor Matthew Loxham noted.



"Non-exhaust emissions could increase over time due to electric vehicles being heavier than combustion engine vehicles and creating greater friction," 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-happens-next">What happens next?</h2>



As we approach an increasingly electric vehicle-led future, it is imperative to recognize that while electric vehicles may not have <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/car-tires-shed-pollutants-that-are-especially-toxic-for-humans-and-wildlife/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">exhaust emissions</a>, they are still far from being emission-free.



If we are to achieve a healthier future, we must look beyond exhaust emissions and deal with the increasing effect of non-exhaust pollutants.



Vehicle emission regulations need to evolve to address non-exhaust sources such as tire and brake wear, ensuring that air quality improvements keep pace with technological advancements.



Also, ongoing research into alternative materials for brake pads and new braking technologies, including regenerative braking, might go a long way toward minimizing particulate matter emissions.



Addressing these under-emphasized pollution sources can allow us to have a more complete strategy for cleaner air and healthier communities.



The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://particleandfibretoxicology.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s12989-024-00617-2" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Particle and Fibre Toxicology</a>.



-----



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



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



-----

Several auto parts create worse air pollution than exhaust fumes

Brake pad emissions have become a powerful but unsuspected source...

Monarch butterflies are among the most studied insects in the world due to their impressive seasonal journeys across North America. Yet, their populations face mounting challenges as climate change alters the landscapes they rely on.



Harlan Radcliff is an amateur butterfly enthusiast. For over 17 years, he dedicated his lunch breaks to observing <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/monarch-butterflies-face-steep-decline-in-the-western-u-s/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">monarchs</a> at Camp Dodge, a military installation in Iowa.



What started as a personal passion turned into an invaluable scientific record. His meticulous notes allowed researchers to analyze how climate variations are affecting monarch migration patterns in the 21st century.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-long-term-record-of-monarch-activity">Long-term record of monarch activity</h2>



Between April and November, from 2003 to 2019, Radcliff carefully recorded the dates, times, locations, and numbers of the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/creating-new-forests-to-assist-monarch-butterfly-migration/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">butterflies</a> he spotted. 



He had no idea at the time that his efforts would one day shape a significant scientific study. His dataset provided a rare long-term record of monarch activity in the heart of their summer breeding range.



Professor Diane Debinski, head of Montana State University’s <a href="https://www.montana.edu/ecology/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Department of Ecology</a>, led a research team that used Radcliff’s observations to study monarch migration.



Funded by the <a href="https://www.defense.gov" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">U.S. Department of Defense</a>, the study was part of a broader effort to understand how climate change is affecting butterfly species on military lands.



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



Monarch butterflies are unique in their migration patterns. Eastern monarchs travel between Mexico and the U.S., spending summers east of the Rocky Mountains. Western monarchs winter in California and migrate west of the Rockies during the summer.



The study aimed to examine the phenology of Camp Dodge’s monarchs. This involved looking at the timing of key events in their life cycle, such as arrival, departure, and peak abundance. 



Changes in these timings can affect their survival, reproductive success, and overall population health.



“We wanted to look at phenology of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/monarch-butterflies-shift-to-winter-breeding-for-survival/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">butterflies</a> and test whether it was shifting, and if it was, to ask how that might affect the viability of the populations over the long term,” explained Professor Debinski.



The team also analyzed the phenology of milkweed, the monarchs’ primary host plant. Monarch caterpillars rely on milkweed for survival, making it essential to understand whether its growing season was shifting in sync with butterfly migration.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-testing-phenological-shifts-in-monarchs">Testing phenological shifts in monarchs</h2>



The researchers conducted fieldwork in 2020 to test whether monarch arrival times had changed over the years. 



They placed monarch eggs on milkweed plants at different intervals - some two weeks earlier than historical records, some at the expected time, and others two weeks later. This approach helped them determine whether changes in migration timing had consequences for the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/why-are-monarch-butterflies-vanishing-in-the-winter/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">butterflies' development</a>.



The initial hypothesis was that monarchs would arrive earlier due to climate change, mirroring patterns observed in other species. However, the data revealed something unexpected. 



The timing of monarch arrival remained consistent from 2003 to 2019, but their fall departure was delayed. By 2019, monarchs were staying at Camp Dodge about nine days longer than they had in 2003.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-risks-of-a-longer-fall-season">Risks of a longer fall season </h2>



The shift in fall departure raised important questions about the effects of climate change on monarchs. Interestingly, milkweed also showed a similar pattern, blooming later into the season.



“What we saw was that milkweed herbarium specimens were collected later over time, indicating that they were blooming longer over time, and monarchs were in the field as adults longer over time, which means that the fall season was actually indicating a change,” noted Professor Debinski.



While a longer fall season might seem beneficial, it carries potential risks. Butterflies staying in the field longer could be exposed to more predators and parasites. 



Additionally, a longer growing season might create a “development trap,” where monarchs begin a phase of their life cycle too late to complete it.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-climate-shifts-may-help-or-harm-monarchs">Climate shifts may help or harm monarchs</h2>



A development trap occurs when environmental changes encourage butterflies to lay eggs late in the season, but those eggs fail to develop into adults before winter arrives. This could lead to increased mortality rates, reducing overall <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/monarch-butterflies-may-be-added-to-the-endangered-species-list/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">population</a> numbers.



The field experiment confirmed that a shift in monarch timing could have costly effects. The researchers observed that early-season larval survival was highest when egg hatching matched historical monarch arrivals. 



However, when eggs were placed on milkweed two weeks earlier than usual, survival rates dropped. 



These findings highlight the delicate balance monarchs must maintain with their environment. Even small changes in climate and plant growth cycles can disrupt their lifecycle, potentially leading to population declines.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-tracking-monarch-population-changes">Tracking monarch population changes</h2>



Although Radcliff has since passed away, his careful documentation provided an essential foundation for this research. 



His records allowed scientists to track monarch population changes at Camp Dodge over nearly two decades. The study confirmed that monarch populations declined between 2003 and 2019, reflecting broader trends observed by the <a href="https://www.fws.gov" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service</a>.



“Discussions about phenology often exclude migratory butterflies, because they experience climates in multiple places,” said Professor Debinski.



“Our research showed that even migratory species can show shifts in phenology. The more information we have about phenology, population sizes and population growth rates, the better we will be able to conserve monarch butterflies and many other species of conservation concern.”



This research serves as a reminder of the importance of long-term ecological data. Without Radcliff’s commitment to documenting monarchs year after year, scientists might have missed these critical trends. 



As climate change continues to shape ecosystems, studies like this one will help conservationists understand how best to protect the iconic monarch butterflies for future generations.



The study is published in the <a href="https://besjournals.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1111/1365-2656.70004" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Journal of Animal Ecology</a>. 



-----



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



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



-----

Monarch butterflies are delaying their migration in a warmer climate

Monarch butterflies are among the most studied insects in the...

Cocoa is the backbone of the $100 billion chocolate industry, and the source of livelihood for millions of small-scale cocoa farmers in warm tropical climates. Unfortunately, climate change makes it increasingly difficult for these farmers to maintain productivity, putting the future of this crop under growing threat.



The increased global consumption of cocoa has already provoked plantation expansion and intensified cultivation schemes - frequently at the expense of local biodiversity and long-term ecosystem resilience.



As the sector struggles with these issues, scientists are working on solutions that can safeguard cocoa production and the ecosystems they depend on. New findings suggest that nature itself may hold the key to securing cocoa’s future.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-skyrocketing-cocoa-costs">Skyrocketing cocoa costs</h2>



In December 2024, cocoa prices soared to an unprecedented $12,646 per metric ton. Experts link this jump to years of adverse weather, which has been linked to climate change, and the cocoa swollen shoot virus in West Africa. 



As a result, manufacturing costs for chocolate have surged more than 167% over the past two years, forcing retailers to raise prices.



Consumers now face higher chocolate costs at checkout, weighing whether a favorite sweet is worth the extra expense.



Hershey’s buying practices mean current cocoa costs won’t hit shelves right away. Still, the company stated, “We continue to collaborate with our retail partners to ensure we offer a variety of products that meet the right occasions and price points for our consumers.” A 1-pound bar of Hershey’s remains $14.99 for now.



Dirk Van de Put of Mondelez International cited “unprecedented cocoa cost inflation,” while cocoa futures rose 143%. 



“Every time we get rain in West Africa, the futures change. People are watching it that close. It’s just crazy. There’s a lot of money on the table in this exchange,” said Branch. 



The Ivory Coast and Ghana produce 70% of all cocoa, making adverse weather and disease - often tied to climate change - key factors.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-climate-threats-to-cocoa-farming">Climate threats to cocoa farming</h2>



A collaborative research effort has shed light on the growing risks that climate change poses to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/cocoa-production-in-africa-is-under-extreme-climate-pressure/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cocoa production</a>.



More significantly, the study suggests possible methods for farmers to maintain productivity, without further encroaching on our much-needed forests.



The research, which sought to understand the crucial factors that shape cocoa yields, was conducted in Brazil, Ghana, and Indonesia, whose combined production covers a third of the world's cocoa.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-pollinators-boost-yields-up-to-20">Pollinators boost yields up to 20%</h2>



One key finding of the study was that increased <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/insect-apocalypse-australasia-is-facing-a-hidden-pollination-crisis/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">pollination</a> rates could effectively augment yields by a significant fifth. 



As understood from the study, many cocoa plantations are currently incompletely pollinated, which prevents them from reaching their full yield potential.



"Cocoa is pollinated by tiny insects such as midges and thrips, and it comes as quite a surprise that most of the time there simply isn’t enough pollination happening to produce the cocoa crop that is possible," said Dr. Acheampong Atta-Boateng, who recently completed his doctoral work at the <a href="https://www.ox.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Oxford</a>.



Changes in temperature also influence yields, a fact that highlights the vulnerability of cocoa-producing regions to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/climate-change-earth-energy-imbalance-temperature-rise/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">climate change</a>. 



Sites where temperatures were higher by up to 7 degrees recorded cocoa yields that were reduced by between 20 and 31%.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-cocoa-farming-vs-future-climate">Cocoa farming vs. future climate</h2>



The concluding recommendations of the study highlight practical, feasible strategies to enhance pollination and manage the growing impact of climate change. 



Priorities include maintaining leaf litter and other understory biomass, preserving soil organic matter, providing suitable shade, and cutting back on <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/common-herbicides-linked-to-diminished-brain-functioning-in-young-adults/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">chemical use in agriculture</a>.



"This research shows that sustainable agricultural methods can significantly improve cocoa yields without farm expansion or intensification," stressed Dr. Tonya Lander from the University of Oxford, the lead author of the study.



By adopting biodiversity-centered, climate-resilient farming techniques, the cocoa sector can both increase production and safeguard farmers' livelihoods.



"The rising demand for cocoa and the short-term economic benefits to farmers has led to plantation expansion and ecological homogenization at the expense of biodiversity and vital ecosystem services, like pollination," said Dr. Tom Wanger of <a href="https://en.westlake.edu.cn/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Westlake University</a> in China.



"This study highlights the long-term risks of this approach, and how pollination can be a solution that works, alongside climate-resilient agricultural systems, to achieve long-term, ecologically and financially sustainable solutions," he concluded.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-implementing-sustainable-practices">Implementing sustainable practices</h2>



Although the research emphasizes increased pollination and climate-resilient agriculture, the adoption of these practices on a large scale needs unified action by farmers, policy makers, and industry leaders.



The small-scale cocoa farmers, who are the backbone of the industry, do not have access to the resources and information for adopting these sustainable farming practices.



One of the most significant challenges is striking a balance between short-term economic pressures and long-term sustainability. 



Most farmers operate on limited finances, making it hard to invest in biodiversity-friendly methods or move away from chemical-based agriculture. 



Offering financial incentives, such as subsidies or premium pricing for sustainably grown cocoa, may help bridge this gap by encouraging farmers to adopt more eco-friendly practices.



Additionally, farmer training and education initiatives can enable producers to learn about the importance of pollinators and adopt practices that promote biodiversity.



Methods such as agroforestry - growing cocoa trees with other indigenous plants - can increase pollination rates while also providing additional sources of income.



Though demand stays strong, rising production expenses and uncertain supply may reshape chocolate prices for years to come.



However, by investing in sustainable solutions now, the cocoa sector can help ensure that generations to come can still enjoy chocolate while protecting the livelihoods of farmers and the ecosystems that support them.



---



This study was an international collaboration involving scientists from the University of Oxford, Westlake University in China, Universidade Estadual de Santa Cruz in Brazil, and the University of Göttingen in Germany



The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://www.nature.com/commsenv/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Communications Earth &amp; Environment</a>.



-----



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



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



-----

Chocolate and cocoa prices have doubled in the past year, here's why

Cocoa is the backbone of the $100 billion chocolate industry,...

Across Kenya, grasslands serve as a crucial lifeline for both local communities and wildlife, from elephants and giraffes to hyenas. However, climate-driven drought is drying out these habitats, forcing animals and people to vie for diminishing resources - and fueling conflict.&nbsp;



Now, new research shows that restoring more grassland significantly reduces clashes and boosts safety for everyone.



“Grassland restoration is playing a role in reducing <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/human-wildlife-overlap-is-rapidly-rising-across-the-globe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">human-wildlife conflicts</a>, social conflicts and the overall feeling of insecurity in Chyulu Hills, Kenya,” said study leader Camila Donatti, a scientist at Conservation International.&nbsp;



“Grasslands maintain 60% of the livestock produced in Kenya and support 70% of all the wildlife that is found outside protected areas, so people, livestock, and wildlife rely on those grasslands for their survival and live in close proximity. This means this system is ideal for studying the connections between grassland restoration and peace and security.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-droughts-escalate-competition-for-resources">Droughts escalate competition for resources</h2>



With the climate crisis intensifying, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/droughts-and-extreme-weather-events-are-escalating/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">droughts</a> have grown more severe, reducing vegetation and leaving less food for both livestock and wildlife.&nbsp;



In Chyulu Hills, researchers surveyed 1,567 households and found that 89% faced some form of conflict with wildlife, while 32% experienced social disputes with other residents. The area is predicted to suffer even more pronounced droughts in the next 30 years, further imperiling resources and livelihoods.



“Grasslands prevent soil erosion while supporting agriculture and livestock grazing, which sustain the livelihoods of pastoralists and farmers in Kenya,” explained Maureen Mwanzia, formerly with Conservation International Kenya and now a statistician at the World Health Organization.&nbsp;



“Additionally, they support rich biodiversity. Beyond their ecological functions, grasslands hold cultural significance and offer tourism and recreation opportunities, making their protection and restoration essential for both environmental and human well-being.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-tracking-conflicts-in-restored-grasslands-nbsp">Tracking conflicts in restored grasslands&nbsp;</h2>



Beginning in October 2021, 11,000 hectares of grassland in the Chyulu Hills were earmarked for rehabilitation. 



From September 2022 to October 2023, researchers interviewed local households near these restored sites to understand the scale of human-wildlife interactions, such as crop raids and livestock attacks. The team also wanted to document social tensions, like disagreements over land use.



“Of the total households interviewed, 23% had at least one member experiencing non-lethal attacks by wildlife,” Donatti said. “<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/human-elephant-conflict-will-escalate-with-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Elephants</a>, giraffes, lions, spotted hyenas, and buffalos were the most likely species to be involved.”&nbsp;



Conflicts often spiked during the rainy season, when predators sometimes turn to livestock and herbivores stray into ripening fields.



However, the study revealed that households near larger restored grassland areas encountered fewer wildlife conflicts, though overall conflict levels stayed relatively flat across time. Researchers attribute this to the still-limited size of restored grasslands compared with animals’ broad ranges.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-restored-grassland-reduces-community-disputes">Restored grassland reduces community disputes</h2>



Besides curbing wildlife clashes, restored grassland appeared to lower social conflicts and a sense of insecurity within local populations. 



Over the study period, people’s perceptions of safety generally improved where more habitat restoration was underway - though women-led households reported more social conflict and uncertainty than male-led households.



“However, we only have 16 months of data,” Donatti cautioned. “Tracking conflicts should continue in the area to understand long-term patterns.”&nbsp;



“Additionally, the information we requested from household members relates to the conflicts and mitigation strategies we have previously identified; other conflicts and strategies may have been happening in the area.”



“Finally, household surveys do not properly capture retaliatory measures on wildlife. These should be assessed using a different methodology.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-potential-of-large-scale-grassland-restoration-nbsp">Potential of large-scale grassland restoration&nbsp;</h2>



Based on these findings, Mwanzia underscored the potential for large-scale grassland restoration to foster both ecological and social benefits.



“I would like to see the integration of grassland restoration into national and international environmental and development strategies, with dedicated funding and resources,” said Mwanzia.&nbsp;



“Policies should address human-wildlife and social conflicts while incorporating gender-sensitive approaches that consider the unique challenges faced by men and women in grassland areas.”



With <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/grasslands-are-racing-to-adapt-to-climate-shifts/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">droughts</a> intensifying and tensions escalating, the study highlights grassland restoration as a nature-based approach that can defuse conflicts, support livestock, and protect wildlife. 



As other regions face similar climate pressures, Kenya’s experience may offer a guide on how bolstering natural habitats can help sustain communities and preserve <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/changes-in-earths-biodiversity-can-be-tracked-from-space/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">biodiversity</a>.



The study is published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.3389/fenvs.2024.1431316" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Frontiers in Environmental Science</a>.



-----



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



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



-----

Restored grasslands bring more peace to Africa 

Across Kenya, grasslands serve as a crucial lifeline for both...

A newly published study investigates how complex chemical mixtures respond to repeated environmental fluctuations, providing insights into prebiotic processes that may have paved the way for life on Earth.&nbsp;



By exposing various organic molecules to cycles of drying and rehydration, researchers observed continuous transformations, selective organization, and synchronized shifts among molecular populations. These behaviors help clarify how early chemical systems could have achieved the complexity needed for life.



The study, published in <a href="https://dx.doi.org/10.1038/s41557-025-01734-x" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature Chemistry</a>, demonstrates that repeated wet-dry cycles not only altered chemical compositions but also guided these shifts in a structured, rather than random, way.&nbsp;



The findings suggest that changing environmental factors might have played an active role in fostering the molecular diversity that was necessary for life to emerge on Earth.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-simulating-early-environmental-cycles">Simulating early environmental cycles</h2>



To explore how <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/clues-to-lifes-beginnings-found-in-ancient-chemical-reactions/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">chemical evolution</a> may have played out billions of years ago, scientists subjected mixtures containing diverse functional groups - such as carboxylic acids, amines, thiols, and hydroxyls - to multiple rounds of drying out and rehydration.&nbsp;



In essence, they mimicked the environmental swings thought to be common on the early Earth, including periods of moisture followed by arid conditions.&nbsp;



Rather than producing disorganized reactions, the mixtures organized themselves and evolved along predictable patterns.



This challenges the notion that early chemical pathways were entirely haphazard. Instead, the results imply that nature’s fluctuations - like brief rain showers in ancient shallow ponds or tidal zones - could have steered molecules in specific, constructive directions.&nbsp;



Over long spans of time, these guided transformations may have led to increasingly sophisticated molecular systems akin to the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-did-the-building-blocks-of-life-form/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">building blocks of life</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-environmental-changes-and-chemical-reactions">Environmental changes and chemical reactions</h2>



The study was conducted by Dr. Moran Frenkel-Pinter from the Institute of Chemistry at the <a href="https://en.huji.ac.il/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Hebrew University of Jerusalem</a> and Professor Loren Williams from the <a href="https://www.gatech.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Georgia Institute of Technology</a>.



The research team shows how chemical systems evolve steadily while preserving structural coherence. Their focus was on continuous transformation: even as molecules changed or formed new bonds, the overall system avoided devolving into chaos.



Chemical evolution generally refers to the gradual complexification of molecules in conditions that predate life. This concept is essential for explaining how biologically relevant compounds, such as amino acids and nucleotides, eventually appeared.&nbsp;



While much prior research zeroed in on individual chemical reactions or specific molecules, this new work sets up a more all-encompassing model of how an entire mixture might behave under environmental changes.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-environmental-cycles-and-molecular-variety">Environmental cycles and molecular variety </h2>



In particular, the researchers uncovered three significant observations. First, chemical systems continued to evolve without reaching a stable equilibrium, suggesting that persistent environmental stimuli, like wet-dry cycles, can keep driving new reactions.&nbsp;



Second, although the mixtures contained many types of molecules, they did not expand into an unwieldy soup of complexity. Instead, certain chemical routes were favored, restricting random pathways and maintaining organization.&nbsp;



Finally, different molecular species showed interlinked patterns of emergence and decline, implying that some molecules depended on or facilitated the formation of others in a coordinated way.



Collectively, these aspects highlight how environmental shifts could encourage the development of molecular variety while preserving orderly growth - characteristics essential to the emergence of living systems.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-potential-mechanisms-for-the-emergence-of-life">Potential mechanisms for the emergence of life</h2>



By focusing on how entire mixtures adapt and transform over multiple cycles, the study helps bridge the gap between classical prebiotic chemistry (which often probes single reactions) and the broader question of how life got started.



“This research offers a new perspective on how molecular evolution might have unfolded on early Earth,” said Frenkel-Pinter.



“By demonstrating that chemical systems can self-organize and evolve in structured ways, we provide experimental evidence that may help bridge the gap between prebiotic chemistry and the emergence of biological molecules.”



The team envisions that repeated wet-dry cycles in ancient environments - like shallow basins or tidally influenced regions - could have systematically steered chemical mixtures to form increasingly complex networks.&nbsp;



Over time, such processes could cultivate the right conditions for molecules capable of replication and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/human-metabolism-has-evolved-to-become-energetically-unique/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">metabolism</a>, key signatures of life.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-early-stages-of-life-on-earth">Early stages of life on Earth</h2>



Though primarily aimed at unraveling life’s early stages, the study’s findings might also be applied in synthetic biology and nanotechnology.&nbsp;



The authors suggest that controlled chemical evolution - exploiting periodic changes in the environment - could lead to new ways of producing molecular systems with desired traits. This might include specialized polymers, novel catalysts, or even biologically inspired <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/nanotech-material-graphene-passes-human-safety-tests/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">nanomaterials</a>.



Additionally, a better understanding of how chemical systems self-organize could inform <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/oral-peptides-pave-the-way-for-new-drug-development/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">drug development</a>, helping researchers design molecules that adapt to varied conditions within the human body.&nbsp;



The self-organizing principle could also prove beneficial in engineering tasks where complex, adaptive behavior is desired - much like living cells operate via coordinated chemical pathways.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-from-simple-molecules-to-complex-life">From simple molecules to complex life</h2>



While this study highlights how fluctuations in ancient Earth’s environment might have propelled chemical complexity, many questions remain about the full path from simple molecules to the first true life forms.&nbsp;



The authors advocate for broader experiments that expand on the current approach: using more varied chemical compositions, testing different pH levels or temperature ranges, and coupling the results with genetic-like feedback mechanisms.



The researchers hope this approach will unravel further details about how molecules collaborate, outcompete, and reshape one another in dynamic chemical “ecosystems.”&nbsp;



Such knowledge is not only essential for understanding how life may have arisen but could also guide how we harness or replicate these evolutionary tricks in modern science and industry.



-----



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



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



-----

Earth’s cycles may have sparked the chemical foundations of life

A newly published study investigates how complex chemical mixtures respond...

A recent study has found that reintroducing wolves to the Scottish Highlands could contribute to an expansion of native woodland that would sequester up to one million tons of CO2 annually.



Experts from the <a href="https://www.leeds.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Leeds</a> used ecological and modeling techniques to estimate how wolf predation on red deer might allow depleted forests to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/wolves-are-rebuilding-forests-and-restoring-ecosystem-balance-in-yellowstone/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">recover</a>. 



By reducing the deer population, the researchers project that new tree growth would flourish, resulting in substantial carbon sequestration.



In their study, the experts have detailed a potential path toward balancing biodiversity restoration with climate mitigation goals.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-modeling-the-impact-of-wolves">Modeling the impact of wolves</h2>



The red <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-does-climate-change-affect-deer-its-complicated/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">deer</a> population in Scotland has grown considerably in the absence of top predators. As deer graze heavily on saplings, many once-forested areas remain treeless, inhibiting the region’s long-term ecological health.&nbsp;



The research team used a predator–prey model to simulate how wolves could control deer numbers if reintroduced to specific regions classified as Scottish Wild Land, including areas in the Cairngorms, South-west Highlands, Central Highlands, and North-west Highlands.



From their simulations, the scientists concluded that a population of around 167 wolves spread across these regions would likely reduce deer densities enough to enable natural woodland regeneration on a large scale.&nbsp;



This vegetation recovery, they estimate, would annually sequester roughly one million tons of CO2 - equivalent to about 5% of the <a href="https://www.theccc.org.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">UK Climate Change Committee</a>’s recommended woodland carbon removal target for meeting net-zero emissions by 2050.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-potential-climate-benefits-of-wolves">Potential climate benefits of wolves</h2>



One of the study’s most notable findings is that each wolf would lead to an annual <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/earths-carbon-sinks-are-being-pushed-to-their-limits/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">carbon</a> uptake capability of 6080 tonnes of CO2, effectively making each predator “worth” £154,000 based on current carbon valuation metrics.&nbsp;



Researchers see these results as further proof that large carnivores can provide significant ecosystem services by restoring natural processes.



Wolves were eradicated from Scotland approximately 250 years ago, leaving red deer without any natural predators. While humans do hunt and manage deer, numbers have still surged, hampering tree regrowth.&nbsp;



According to the study, substantial reforestation could now be achievable through ecological processes alone - if wolves were allowed to return and perform their predator role in the ecosystem.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-step-toward-climate-ready-conservation">A step toward climate-ready conservation</h2>



“There is an increasing acknowledgement that the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/scientists-climate-change-and-biodiversity-loss-are-one-indivisible-global-health-crisis/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">climate and biodiversity crises</a> cannot be managed in isolation,” said lead author Dominick Spracklen, a professor at the University of Leeds’ School of Earth and Environment.



“We need to look at the potential role of natural processes such as the reintroduction of species to recover our degraded ecosystems and these in turn can deliver co-benefits for climate and nature recovery.”&nbsp;



Diminished native woodlands pose ecological and economic risks. The study makes it clear that a wolf reintroduction initiative could turn this around, providing new habitat for other species.



Wolves could also reduce deer-related issues (such as road collisions and damage to young trees), and even create potential ecotourism opportunities - as observed in other countries that have reintroduced large predators.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-weighing-the-risks-and-benefits">Weighing the risks and benefits</h2>



The researchers acknowledge that reintroducing wolves would be controversial, especially among livestock farmers and deer stalkers concerned about their livelihoods.&nbsp;



Advocates argue that the economic value of improved carbon sequestration (along with reduced deer cull costs and new ecotourism revenues) could offset some of these concerns.



They also stress that any move toward wolf reintroduction would require extensive stakeholder engagement, transparent decision-making, and well-thought-out management plans to mitigate human-wildlife conflicts.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-nature-based-solutions-and-climate-benefits">Nature-based solutions and climate benefits </h2>



From a broader perspective, the findings add to a growing body of literature suggesting that nature-based solutions - in this case, leveraging a predator’s ecological role - can deliver meaningful climate benefits.&nbsp;



By harnessing the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/danger-zones-climate-change-is-altering-predator-prey-dynamics/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">predator-prey dynamic</a> to spur woodland recovery, Scotland could see a substantial boost in carbon storage capacity and ecological resilience.



Still, the exact outcome of wolf reintroduction would depend on public support, regulatory frameworks, and the practicalities of managing a newly returned apex predator.&nbsp;



As discussions evolve, the team’s data provide a baseline for measuring potential gains in both conservation and carbon uptake.



In line with these insights, the study offers a new vantage point on how large carnivore restoration might affect the UK’s broader climate and biodiversity goals.&nbsp;



If pursued, the reintroduction of wolves could shape not just local landscapes but also the national conversation on how best to unite climate action with wildlife recovery.



The study is published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1002/2688-8319.70016" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Ecological Solutions and Evidence</a>.



-----



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



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



-----

Reintroducing wolves could help Scotland fight climate change 

A recent study has found that reintroducing wolves to the...

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Is chocolate the next nutritional powerhouse?

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



Video Credit: Amanda Nguyen/University of Illinois



---



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



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

Designing crops that can beat the heat

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

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



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



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



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



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



Video Credit: NASA Goddard&nbsp;



---



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



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

Remote sensing will revolutionize the way we monitor trees

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



Video Credit: ESA&nbsp;&nbsp;



---



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



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

Lesotho: Africa's "Kingdom in the Sky"

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

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



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



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



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



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



Video Credit: NASA Goddard



---



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



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

Wetlands are a major source of methane emissions

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



---



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



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

The rapid retreat of the Columbia Glacier

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

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



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



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



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



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



Video/ Image Credit: NASA Goddard



---



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



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

2022 illustrated the consequences of a warming climate

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

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



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



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



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



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



Video Credit: NASA Goddard&nbsp;



---



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



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

Satellites reveal how Earth's systems are interconnected

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



---



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



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

Tiger sharks are shifting poleward as temperatures rise

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



Video Credit: ESA&nbsp;



---



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



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

Melt ponds on the Greenland Ice Sheet

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

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



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



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



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



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



Video Credit: ESA



---



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



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

Tracking changes in Earth's water cycle

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

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



Video Credit: NASA Goddard&nbsp;



---



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



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

Mysterious "spoke season" captured on Saturn

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

Closeup,Of,Fresh,Green,The,Napier,Bush,Grass,As,Animal

<div class="wp-block-sendtonews-playerselector">[sendtonews key="6SdlLLbt0t-1988946-12187" type="single"]</div>



Today’s Video of the Day from <a href="http://www.ntu.edu.sg/">NTU Singapore</a> reveals that some plants can remove toxic heavy metals from soil.&nbsp;



The researchers analyzed samples of various tropical plant species to test for levels of heavy metals and metalloids. The study showed that there are existing plants with high levels of these contaminants, which means that these species are great candidates for drawing pollutants out of the soil.&nbsp;



Among the plants examined in the study, 12 species had accumulated several types of heavy metals and metalloids. These plants are widely available, including species that are native to Singapore.



“In a small nation like Singapore, land may be repurposed to support new development plans, so it is important that we have a green and sustainable way to remediate land that is contaminated," said Professor Lam Yeng Ming.



"We set out to uncover how to better make use of tropical plants to do phytoremediation and through advanced characterization techniques, we showed how some of these tropical plant species can be an environmentally friendly and literally a 'green' way to remove contaminants in soil."&nbsp;



"Phytoremediation also has benefits of cost effectiveness, simplicity of management, aesthetic advantages, and long-term applicability and sustainability. The strategy prevents erosion and metal leaching by stabilizing or accumulating heavy metals, so that helps reduce the risk of contaminant spread.”



Video Credit: NTU Singapore



---



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



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

Plants help remove heavy metals from contaminated soil

[sendtonews key="6SdlLLbt0t-1988946-12187" type="single"] Today’s Video of the Day from NTU...

<div class="wp-block-sendtonews-playerselector">[sendtonews key="gRpsplpwpe-2251464-12187" type="single"]</div>



Today’s Video of the Day from the <a href="https://www.acs.org/">American Chemical Society</a> describes why herbicides are not as effective in killing weeds anymore. In the 20th century, chemical companies developed thousands of herbicides. The most commonly used herbicide was glyphosate, which was introduced in 1974.



Over the past few decades, dozens of species of weeds have evolved resistance to glyphosate. Depending on the site of action, the part of the plant that an herbicide interacts with, weeds may even be resistant to herbicides that have not been developed yet.&nbsp;



With increasing resistance to glyphosate and other herbicides, weeds are - once again - becoming a major concern for farmers.&nbsp;



Video Credit: American Chemical Society&nbsp;



---



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



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

Weeds are becoming increasingly resistant to herbicides

[sendtonews key="gRpsplpwpe-2251464-12187" type="single"] Today’s Video of the Day from the...

<div class="wp-block-sendtonews-playerselector">[sendtonews key="eAVLRk51oJ-1826888-12187" type="single"]</div>



Today’s Video of the Day from the <a href="https://www.jpl.nasa.gov/">NASA Jet Propulsion Laboratory</a> (JPL) describes a dust storm on Mars that was nearly twice the size of the United States. As the storm covered the southern hemisphere of the planet, some of NASA’s explorers had to delay their normal activities.



NASA’s Insight lander put itself in a "safe mode" for 11 days to conserve battery power because solar power was disrupted by the dust. The Ingenuity Mars Helicopter postponed flights until conditions improved.



"A fleet of NASA orbiters monitor Martian dust storms like this one and serve as lifelines to Earth by relaying data from the rovers and lander on the ground back to the team. This includes the Mars Reconnaissance Orbiter, MAVEN, and Odyssey," reports JPL.



"Dust storms like this recent one start close to the ground and are spread by wind as they rise – warming the cold Martian atmosphere."



The images in the video were captured by NASA’s Curiosity as the dust rolled in. A fleet of orbiters monitored the dust storm from above, relaying data from Mars’ explorers back to scientists on Earth.



Video &amp; Image Credit: NASA/JPL-Caltech/ASU/MSSS



---



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



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

NASA monitors giant dust storms on Mars

[sendtonews key="eAVLRk51oJ-1826888-12187" type="single"] Today’s Video of the Day from the...

<div class="wp-block-sendtonews-playerselector">[sendtonews key="sFFhiK9OOn-1720418-12187" type="single"]</div>



Today's Video of the Day from the <a href="http://www.esa.int/">European Space Agency</a> features Qeshm Island in the Strait of Hormuz. This strait provides the only sea passage from the Persian Gulf to the open ocean.



Qeshm is separated from the Iranian coast by the Clarence Strait, also known as Khuran.&nbsp;The Hara Forest Protected Area is a network of shallow waterways and forest located between the island and the mainland. This protected region is home to sea turtles, snakes, and more than 150 species of migrating birds.



Qeshm is famous for its wide range of&nbsp;ecotourist&nbsp;attractions, such as the&nbsp;Hara marine forests. According to environmentalists, about 1.5 percent of the world birds and 25 percent of Iran's native <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/female-hummingbirds-avoid-sexual-harassment-by-looking-like-males/">birds</a> annually migrate to the forests, which are the first national geo park in Iran.



Tourists are also drawn to the island to see an age-old Portuguese&nbsp;fort, historic mosques, the&nbsp;Seyyed Mozaffar&nbsp;and&nbsp;Bibi Maryam&nbsp;shrines, and the "Valley of Stars."



The average temperature on the island is 81 degress and the region is often hot and humid. From June to August, the island is described as being oppressively hot. The ideal time to visit is during the winter season. 



Video Credit: ESA&nbsp;



---



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



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

Qeshm Island in the Strait of Hormuz

[sendtonews key="sFFhiK9OOn-1720418-12187" type="single"] Today's Video of the Day from the...

<div class="wp-block-sendtonews-playerselector">[sendtonews key="yPSXGZek1I-2312529-12187" type="single"]</div>



Today’s Video of the Day from the <a href="https://www.esa.int/">European Space Agency</a> features Inhambane Bay in southeast Mozambique.&nbsp;



"Inhambane Bay is a deep inlet into which the small Mutamba River flows," says ESA. "On one side of the bay lies the historical city of Inhambane, capital of the Inhambane Province, while the sister city of Maxixe, the economic capital of Inhambane, sits across from it. The province is the second largest grower of cashews, after Nampula, and it also produces coconut and citrus fruits."



The beaches of Barra and Tofo are popular with tourists. There are also coral reefs along the long coastline of Inhambane, making it an ideal destination for scuba diving and snorkeling.



"Mozambique’s extensive coastline heightens the country’s vulnerability to tropical cyclones that develop in the Indian Ocean as well as storm surge flooding," says ESA.



"More than half of the population lives in low lying coastal areas, putting communities at risk. Inhambane Bay was dangerously close to where Cyclone Idai made landfall in 2019 causing widespread destruction to the country."



Video/ Image Credit: ESA



---



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



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

Inhambane Bay in southeast Mozambique

[sendtonews key="yPSXGZek1I-2312529-12187" type="single"] Today’s Video of the Day from the...

<div class="wp-block-sendtonews-playerselector">[sendtonews key="EPdZexVR30-1731237-12187" type="single"]</div>



Today’s Video of the Day from the <a href="https://www.esa.int/">European Space Agency </a>&nbsp;features the Kangerlussuaq Glacier, one of the largest tidewater outlet glaciers in Greenland. The glacier is located on the east coast of the Greenland ice sheet.



As human-induced climate change continues to drive up temperatures, global ice loss is accelerating at an alarming rate. ESA reports that, over the past decade alone, 3.5 trillion tons of ice have melted from the Greenland ice sheet. This is enough to cover the UK with meltwater 15 meters deep.



Based on satellite imagery, researchers determined that Kangerlussuaq entered a new phase of rapid retreat and acceleration in 2017. In their study, published in <a href="https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/feart.2019.00123/full">Frontiers in Earth Science</a>,&nbsp; the experts report that the glacier's ice front is now at its most retreated position since the early 20th century.



"Given Kangerlussuaq’s previous impacts on both the magnitude and pattern of ice sheet wide mass loss, we predict that its new phase of retreat, acceleration and thinning will markedly enhance the south-east region’s contribution to increasing discharge from the ice sheet," wrote the study authors.&nbsp;&nbsp;



"More broadly, accurate forecasting of the ice sheet’s contribution to sea level rise will require a deeper understanding of, and responses to, these non-linear ice dynamic processes."



Video Credit: ESA



---



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



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

Kangerlussuaq Glacier on the Greenland ice sheet

[sendtonews key="EPdZexVR30-1731237-12187" type="single"] Today’s Video of the Day from the...

<div class="wp-block-sendtonews-playerselector">[sendtonews key="uwirCufwYv-2012371-12187" type="single"]</div>



Today’s Video of the Day from the <a href="https://www.esa.int/">European Space Agency</a> describes the complex relationship between ocean and climate. ESA's Climate Change Initiative will help us understand how oceans influence the climate and how climate change is impacting the oceans.&nbsp;



"Earth’s oceans are huge heat stores, soaking up 93% of the excess heat from human activity over the past 70 years. Ocean currents redistribute heat around the planet, from the Equator to the poles. Where this ocean heat goes influences weather patterns and regional climate," explains ESA.



"As well as absorbing heat, oceans are a natural carbon sink, absorbing a quarter of carbon dioxide emissions from human activity. This has led to the acidification of ocean water, threating marine life."



The amount of heat and carbon dioxide soaked up by the ocean depends on specific variables, including phytoplankton, temperatures, waves, salinity, and ice cover. Satellites can be used to measure these variables from space.



"From their unique vantage point, satellites provide key information for understanding the complexities of our planet and monitoring environmental issues," says ESA.



Video Credit: ESA



---



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



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

Ocean heat influences regional climate

[sendtonews key="uwirCufwYv-2012371-12187" type="single"] Today’s Video of the Day from the...

<div class="wp-block-sendtonews-playerselector">[sendtonews key="JrMLDXHmjl-1911953-12187" type="single"]</div>



Today’s Video of the Day from the <a href="https://www.esa.int/">European Space Agency</a> describes the importance of monitoring the shape of the sea surface, which is constantly changing. These observations have many applications, such as ship routing, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/the-modem-ocean-is-a-tough-place-for-whales-to-survive/">ocean</a> current forecasting, and debris tracking.



"A project supported by the Discovery element of ESA’s Basic Activities recently investigated a new technique to measure sea surface topography very precisely," reports ESA.



"The technique involves looking at satellite navigation (GNSS) signals that have been reflected off of the sea surface at very low angles. At these so-called grazing angles, waves and surface roughness have very little impact on the reflection process; the sea surface acts as a very smooth mirror."



Estel Cardellach is the principal investigator at the Institute for Space Studies of Catalonia, who first submitted the idea for the project.



“In a mirror-like reflection the phase of the signal can be tracked – it is continuous," said Cardellach. "Different surface heights result in different phase measurements. It gives a very precise measurement of the surface altitude at a few centimetres’ precision.”



The researchers developed a GNSS receiver and set up an experiment in the Balaeric Islands to collect signals from the receiver that were reflected off the sea surface. Ultimately, these signals will provide improved measurements of the shape of the sea surface.



Image/ Video Credit: ESA



---



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

Monitoring the dynamic shape of the sea surface

[sendtonews key="JrMLDXHmjl-1911953-12187" type="single"] Today’s Video of the Day from the...

News coming your way