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.



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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>.



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Ice piracy: Antarctic glacier discovered "stealing" ice from a neighbor, and that's not good for sea level rise

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...

In the last few years, scientists have tracked a noticeable uptick in Earth’s average temperature. As experts investigate why warming is accelerating, a new study suggests that changes in ship aerosols may be a contributing factor.



To explore the connections between human activity and the climate system, researchers use data on greenhouse gases, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/wildfires-and-arctic-ice-clouds-an-unexpected-connection/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">airborne particles</a>, and shifting ocean patterns.



The latest <a href="https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/00139157.2025.2434494#abstract" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">study</a> offers a surprising analysis of recent temperature spikes and the role of aerosols in ship pollution.



The research was conducted by Dr. James Hansen, the director of the Climate Science, Awareness, and Solutions Program at Columbia University, along with his co-authors.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-understanding-the-temperature-surge">Understanding the temperature surge</h2>



The study notes a sudden jump of more than 0.7°F over the last two years. That is about twice what experts expected from a moderate El Niño pattern alone. In January of this year, NASA confirmed this spike, denoting <a href="https://www.nasa.gov/news-release/temperatures-rising-nasa-confirms-2024-warmest-year-on-record/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">2024</a> as the “warmest year on record.”



The authors suggest this amplified warming is linked to changes in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-small-aerosols-influence-cloud-formation/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">aerosol pollution</a>. They specifically spotlight new regulations on ship fuel that reduce sulfur emissions.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ship-aerosols-once-cooled-the-planet">Ship aerosols once cooled the planet</h2>



Aerosols are tiny specks in the air that can reflect incoming sunlight. In many oceanic regions, these particles had offset some of the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/aerosols-have-an-underestimated-effect-on-clouds-and-climate/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">warming effect</a> of greenhouse gases.



Because ships were a major source of sulfur-based aerosols, cutting this pollution reduced the reflective haze. According to the paper, less haze means more solar energy staying in the atmosphere.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-hotter-earth-as-ship-aerosols-vanish">Hotter Earth as ship aerosols vanish</h2>



Incoming solar energy and outgoing heat must stay in sync to keep surface temperatures stable. The <a href="https://data.giss.nasa.gov/gistemp/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">study</a> points out that the planet has been soaking up more energy than it loses since at least the early 2000s.



The researchers found that ocean waters store most of this excess heat, fueling storms and increasing the threat of rapid intensification in tropical systems.



 The warming also amplifies extreme weather, such as sudden droughts or record-breaking rainfall.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-possible-policy-implications">Possible policy implications</h2>



The research implies that the world may have underestimated how sensitive the climate is to rising carbon dioxide levels. If the impact of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/aerosol-formation-earths-lower-atmosphere-soas/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">aerosols</a> was larger than we thought, then trimming fossil fuel use is even more pressing.



Fresh restrictions on pollution from ships do improve air quality for people. However, the study authors note that removing these cooling aerosols adds an extra kick to global warming unless greenhouse emissions decline.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-concerns-about-melting-ice">Concerns about melting ice</h2>



High latitudes face special risks. Warmer ocean currents can erode the edges of ice sheets in Greenland and Antarctica, raising sea level by several feet over time.



Although the paper warns of a potential point of no return for key ice shelves, there is still a window to stabilize the situation. 



The researchers emphasize that faster cuts in greenhouse gases, along with stronger tracking of ocean and atmospheric changes, could help avert large-scale loss.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ocean-currents-and-climate-extremes">Ocean currents and climate extremes</h2>



Tropical storms often draw energy from elevated ocean temperatures. This can lead to hurricanes or typhoons ramping up rapidly, resulting in more destructive coastal impacts.



Higher sea-surface temperatures also expand the area in which storms can strengthen. This increases the chance of unexpected events in places that once considered themselves safe from severe cyclones.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-balancing-local-and-global-concerns">Balancing local and global concerns</h2>



Leaders in various regions are prioritizing reduced pollution to safeguard human health. Cutting sulfur aerosols from ships is just one example of curbing harmful air contaminants.



Yet these choices can have unintended global consequences if greenhouse gases remain unchecked. Scientists hope that local gains do not overshadow the wider need to slash <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-tiny-aerosols-in-sea-spray-influence-earths-climate/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">carbon emissions</a>.



The authors recommend more precise tracking of ocean heat storage and ice sheet behavior. Satellites and deep-diving floats can clarify how quickly seas are warming and how fast land ice is weakening.



Improved understanding of aerosol-cloud dynamics is also essential. More continuous observations of these particles at different latitudes would resolve uncertainties about their climate impact.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-adjusting-for-the-loss-of-ship-aerosols">Adjusting for the loss of ship aerosols</h2>



Experts have stressed that major climate organizations, including the <a href="https://www.ipcc.ch/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change</a>, must keep refining their models. The recent findings highlight that overlooked sources of cooling, such as ship aerosols, can mask the real warming trend.



Considering that we might cross critical temperature milestones sooner than anticipated, there is an urgent need to integrate these fresh insights into policymaking and climate resilience measures.



The next few decades will show whether nations can adapt and lower emissions swiftly enough. The discussion around shipping routes, aerosol policies, and carbon pricing is now in sharp focus.



The study is published in <a href="https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/00139157.2025.2434494" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Environment: Science and Policy for Sustainable Development</a>.



A conversation between the authors can be viewed <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d6wOjk2OCZQ" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">here</a>.



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Faster global warming linked to fewer aerosols in ship pollution

In the last few years, scientists have tracked a noticeable...

Tiny fragments of plastic, known as microplastics, have been detected in everything from air to water and food. Now, a study of 52 donated human brains has confirmed that these microplastics can pass the blood-brain barrier and accumulate in deep brain regions.&nbsp;



Researchers found traces of <a href="https://www.britannica.com/science/polyethylene" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">polyethylene</a> and other polymers in every sample and noticed that more recent specimens had <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/microplastics-are-steadily-increasing-in-freshwater-environments/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">higher concentrations</a> than older ones.



Scientists discovered that the amount of plastic in 2024 samples exceeded what was seen in 2016, suggesting an ongoing surge. 



The research was led by University of New Mexico toxicology <a href="https://hsc.unm.edu/directory/campen-matthew-j.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">professor, Matthew Campen</a>, who emphasized caution but pointed to global plastic production as a key driver.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-microplastics-in-dementia-patients-brains">Microplastics in dementia patients' brains</h2>



Experts also investigated whether certain conditions exacerbate the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/silent-invasion-how-microplastics-are-disrupting-land-ecosystems/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">buildup</a> of these materials. They noted a group of dementia patients whose brains contained three to five times more plastic pieces than other samples.



&nbsp;“Every time we scratch the surface, it uncovers a whole host of, ‘Oh, is this worse than we thought?’” remarked Campen.



Scientists were surprised by the shapes of the shards seen under an electron microscope. Instead of neat spheres, many were jagged, flake-like structures. Such uneven forms could interact with cells in a different way from microplastics with smooth, round shapes. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-microplastics-in-organs-other-than-the-brain">Microplastics in organs other than the brain</h2>



Several earlier <a href="https://www.nejm.org/doi/full/10.1056/NEJMoa2309822" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">studies</a> have reported plastic residues in human organs, including arteries, kidneys, and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/microplastics-in-the-placenta-linked-to-preterm-births/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">placentas</a>. 



In mouse models, lab work has shown that even short-term exposure to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/filter-feeders-transform-microplastics-into-a-bigger-threat/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">synthetic particles</a> can lead to inflammation in multiple organs.



Some scientists caution that it may be difficult to trace specific ailments back to these particles since plastic exposure is nearly universal.



Another <a href="https://doi.org/10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2024.40018" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">team</a> observed that microplastics were present in the olfactory bulb of the brain, suggesting multiple pathways for these fragments to enter nervous tissue. 



The new research adds evidence that particles can lodge themselves even deeper in the frontal cortex.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-can-microplastics-affect-brain-function">Can microplastics affect brain function?</h2>



Unanswered questions abound in connection with how these <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/microplastic-pollution-is-everywhere-even-in-newborns-and-getting-worse/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">particles</a> could affect mental sharpness or other functions.



Some point out that people with dementia often have compromised filtering systems in the brain, making it unclear if higher plastic counts contribute to such conditions or arise because the brain cannot clear them effectively.



In animal <a href="https://www.mdpi.com/1422-0067/24/15/12308" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">studies</a>, microplastic exposure has been linked to minor memory changes and signs of early cellular stress in certain brain regions. 



Observers believe it may be years before human studies clarify whether these fragments bring on neurological issues directly .



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-industry-response-and-public-concern">Industry response and public concern</h2>



Manufacturers acknowledge the potential risks posed by rising amounts of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/new-process-converts-microplastics-into-valuable-graphene-wonder-material/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">plastic debris</a>. Efforts to minimize microplastic pollution remain a priority.



“The global plastics industry supports advancing scientific understanding of microplastics,” said <a href="https://www.americanchemistry.com/about-acc/acc-leadership/dr-kimberly" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Kimberly Wise White</a>, vice president of regulatory and scientific affairs at the <a href="https://www.americanchemistry.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">American Chemistry Council</a>.&nbsp;



Some wonder if switching to reusable containers or wearing natural-fiber clothing can reduce exposure. 



For now, many scientists feel there are no quick fixes, given how widespread plastic use is and how these particles spread through air, food, and water.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-unseen-challenges-ahead">Unseen challenges ahead</h2>



When asked about strategies for preventing microplastics from making their way into the brain and other vital organs, experts described filtration improvements and tighter regulations on industrial waste.



Others stressed the need for more data on which plastics are most prone to shattering into tiny shards. They added that differences in shape, size, and chemical makeup may all matter when it comes to the extent of harm caused.



Marine biologists have pointed out that early warnings about plastic debris in oceans were largely ignored, so urgent measures for human health might face similar hurdles. 



Richard Thompson, a professor at the University of Plymouth who first used the term “microplastics,” has noted that linking these particles to specific health outcomes is a big challenge.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-shifting-research-landscape">A shifting research landscape</h2>



New detection methods are helping scientists see what was once invisible. 



Advanced imaging tools and chemical analyses have become more precise over the past decade, which boosts confidence in the findings. Still, many worry that the problem could be larger than indicated by current tests.



<a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0048969724043638#" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Studies</a> have also raised the issue of age, health status, and lifestyle factors that could influence the amount of microplastic that ends up in one person’s body in comparison to another’s.



This study found no correlation between levels of microplastics and the age at which a decedent had died, which was unexpected. The researchers plan to conduct further investigations to assess who might be at greater risk.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-mounting-evidence-and-caution">Mounting evidence and caution</h2>



The sheer variety of plastics in everyday life complicates the effort to pinpoint harmful effects. While polystyrene, polypropylene, and polyethylene are commonly cited, other polymers also exist.



Some break down into microscopic flakes, while others degrade into fibrous strands that could tangle in tissues.



Experts stress there is no reason to panic but advise staying informed. Greater awareness may spark changes in manufacturing practices, consumer choices, and waste management. 



Campen remarked that, as global plastic output grows, more steps will be needed to avert higher levels of these particles in the future.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-hope-for-clearer-answers">Hope for clearer answers</h2>



Research in this field is accelerating. International teams are testing how to reduce plastic release into the environment, from better recycling to new <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/microplastics-are-widespread-in-the-seafood-we-eat/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">materials</a> that degrade more cleanly. 



More clinical trials and long-term cohort studies may fill in critical knowledge gaps on how microplastic buildup affects different populations.



Even if some questions persist, scientists say that consistent findings in humans, animals, and lab experiments point to a need for caution. 



A deeper understanding of how microplastics might disrupt brain cells or blood vessels could open doors to prevention.



The study is published in <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41591-024-03453-1" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature Medicine</a>.



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Disturbing study finds microplastic accumulation in human brains, highest in dementia patients

Tiny fragments of plastic, known as microplastics, have been detected...

Greenland,Glacier,Melting:,A,Consequence,Of,Global,Warming.

Greenland’s Ice Sheet is cracking open at the seams, literally falling apart at speeds indicative of the brutal and accelerating impact of global climate change. In just five years, 930 million cubic meters of crevasses opened up in the Greenland ice sheet.



A recent, large-scale study from the <a href="https://www.ufl.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Florida</a> highlights how this vast, frozen expanse - the world’s second-largest ice sheet - is fracturing <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/thousands-of-lakes-in-greenland-have-crossed-a-tipping-point/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">faster than expected</a>.



The findings suggest that the ice sheet’s response to warming is intensifying. This essential discovery was born out of an effective collaboration with scientists from <a href="https://www.durham.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Durham University, UK</a>.



Their detailed analysis of the ice sheet over the critical period between 2016 and 2021 revealed that the crevasses - wedge-shaped fractures in the ice - have increased alarmingly in both size and depth.



These ice fractures typically appear where the ice <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/speed-of-greenland-ice-melt-confirmed-to-be-rapidly-increasing-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">starts to flow faster</a>.



The data revealed that the ice sheet's response to climate changes is accelerating the formation of broader and deeper crevasses.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-cracks-in-greenland-s-ice-sheet">Cracks in Greenland’s ice sheet</h2>



The researchers point out that these rapid changes observed in Greenland's ice sheet crevasses can, in turn, speed up the mechanisms that have resulted in the ever-quickening pace of this devastating <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/greenland-ice-loss-tracked-by-new-gps-system-on-a-daily-basis/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ice loss</a>.



The team hopes their findings will help fellow scientists incorporate the consequences of ice damage and crevassing into future predictions related to the behavior of the Greenland Ice Sheet.



Throughout the years, Greenland has been one of the most important contributors to the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/rising-sea-levels-threaten-groundwater-global-cities-underground-infrastructure/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">rise of sea levels</a>. Since 1992, about 14mm of sea level rise can be attributed to ice flow off Greenland.



This is a direct result of the melting of the ice surface, which is related to the presence of warmer air and sea temperatures, along with the increased flow of ice into the ocean.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-why-greenland-s-ice-sheet-is-important">Why Greenland's ice sheet is important</h2>



As this massive ice sheet loses ice, it adds freshwater to the ocean, causing <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/sea-level-rise-will-cost-coastal-cities-over-1-trillion-in-damages/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">sea levels to rise</a>. Even small increases can lead to bigger storm surges, more coastal flooding, and make some places unlivable. 



Millions of people in low-lying areas could be forced to relocate, and cities like New York and Miami could see major impacts. 



The melting also speeds up itself - less ice means less sunlight is reflected, which warms the planet even more.



If all the ice sheet in Greenland were to melt, we could see a potential rise of seven meters (23 feet) in the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/sea-levels-linked-to-the-rise-and-fall-of-early-human-societies/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">sea levels</a> around the world.



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-full"><a href="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/greenland-ice-sheet_cracking_Store-Glacier_drone-view_Durham-university_1m.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><img src="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/greenland-ice-sheet_cracking_Store-Glacier_drone-view_Durham-university_1s.webp" alt="Crevasses at Store Glacier, a marine-terminating outlet glacier of the western Greenland Ice Sheet. Credit: Tom Chudley (Durham University)" class="wp-image-1959025"/></a><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Crevasses at Store Glacier, a marine-terminating outlet glacier of the western Greenland Ice Sheet. Credit: Tom Chudley (Durham University)</figcaption></figure>



But, as bad as that sounds, it’s not just about sea levels. Greenland’s ice melt messes with ocean currents that help regulate the climate. 



The freshwater pouring into the Atlantic can slow down the Atlantic Meridional Overturning Circulation (<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/collapse-of-main-atlantic-ocean-circulaton-current-amoc-is-already-happening/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">AMOC</a>), a system that moves warm water from the tropics toward Europe. 



If that weakens, Europe could face colder winters, hurricanes could get stronger, and weather patterns worldwide could shift in unpredictable ways.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-satellite-imagery-of-greenland-s-ice-sheet">Satellite imagery of Greenland’s ice sheet</h2>



In their innovative study, the researchers from Durham University used over 8,000 3-D surface maps, that had been created using high-resolution satellite imagery.



“You can’t do it in person, because crevasses are dangerous. It’s hard to study by hand using satellite data. Automated approaches are needed to determine this at an ice-sheet scale,” said Emma MacKie, Ph.D., a professor of geological sciences at the University of Florida, co-author of the study, and expert in machine learning techniques.



This allowed them to identify cracks on the ice surface and to track the evolution of crevasses across Greenland during the period of 2016 to 2021.



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-full"><a href="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/greenland-ice-sheet_cracking_Anorituup-Kangerlua-fjord_2016-2021-comparison_Durham-university_1m.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><img src="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/greenland-ice-sheet_cracking_Anorituup-Kangerlua-fjord_2016-2021-comparison_Durham-university_1s.webp" alt="Using the newly developed method, researchers extracted crevasses from digital elevation models of the ice sheet surface. The maps show how crevasses changed between 2016 and 2021 over glaciers at the head of Anorituup Kangerlua fjord, Greenland. Credit: Tom Chudley (Durham University)" class="wp-image-1959023"/></a><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Using the newly developed method, researchers extracted crevasses from digital elevation models of the ice sheet surface. The maps show how crevasses changed between 2016 and 2021 over glaciers at the head of Anorituup Kangerlua fjord, Greenland. Credit: Tom Chudley (Durham University)</figcaption></figure>



Their findings showed that, in the areas where large <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/tropical-glaciers-offer-a-glimpse-of-our-harsh-climate-reality/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">glaciers</a> meet the sea, accelerations in glacier flow were associated with significant increases in the volume of crevasses.



A fascinating discovery was that the overall change in crevasses across the entire ice sheet ultimately balanced out due to a temporary slowdown in movement at <a href="https://whc.unesco.org/en/list/1149/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Sermeq Kujalleq</a>, the fastest-flowing glacier in Greenland.



Nevertheless, the flow speed of Sermeq Kujalleq has started increasing again, indicating that the period of balance between crevasse growth and closure might be over.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-higher-temperatures-faster-ice-melt">Higher temperatures = faster ice melt</h2>



"In a warming world, we would expect to see more crevasses forming," shared study lead author Dr. Tom Chudley, a Leverhulme Early Career Fellow in the Department of Geography, Durham University, UK. 



"This is because glaciers are accelerating in response to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ocean-warming-broke-records-for-450-straight-days/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">warmer ocean temperatures</a>, and because meltwater filling crevasses can force fractures deeper into the ice. However, until now we haven’t had the data to show where and how fast this is happening across the entirety of the Greenland Ice Sheet."



With this dataset, the scientists can see that it’s not just that crevasse fields are extending into the ice sheet, as previously observed. 



Instead, the current state of Greenland's ice sheet change is dominated by existing crevasse fields getting larger and deeper.



Notably, these developments have the potential to expedite the loss of ice from Greenland. 



“Crevasses can induce accelerated ice flow, leading to more crevassing. So there are these potential positive feedback loops caused by crevassing,” MacKie said. “This mechanism should be considered in Greenland ice sheet models that we’re using to project future sea level rise.”



It's a domino effect that could drive the loss of ice from Greenland at a much faster pace, pointed out study co-author, Professor Ian Howat, who is Director of the Byrd Polar &amp; Climate Research Center at <a href="https://www.osu.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">The Ohio State University</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-discerning-eye-on-the-arctic">Discerning eye on the Arctic</h2>



The high-resolution imagery for the research was provided by the National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency (<a href="https://www.nga.mil" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NGA</a>) and National Science Foundation (<a href="https://www.nsf.gov" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NSF</a>) public-private initiative, ArticDEM project.



"The ArcticDEM project will continue to provide high-resolution Digital Elevation Models until at least 2032. This will allow us to monitor glaciers in Greenland and across the wider Arctic as they continue to respond to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/climate-change-earth-energy-imbalance-temperature-rise/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">climate change</a>," Professor Howat added.



This invaluable information will reveal areas that are experiencing faster rates of warming than any other place in Earth, preparing us with information we need to mitigate the effect of climate change and protect the future of our planet.



The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41561-024-01636-6" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature</a>.



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Greenland's ice sheet is cracking and literally falling apart at a very alarming rate

Greenland’s Ice Sheet is cracking open at the seams, literally...

Climate change is reshaping our oceans in ways that often go unnoticed, yet its impact on marine ecosystems is profound. 



It’s easy to feel disconnected from the hidden changes occurring beneath the waves, but recent research reveals how human-induced climate change is disrupting the delicate balance of ocean nutrient cycles.



The water we can't drink makes up about 97% of the Earth's water, serving as the planet's largest heat sink and providing nearly half the oxygen we breathe. This makes the ocean an essential component of our planet's health.



However, a recent study conducted by researchers at the <a href="https://uci.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of California, Irvine</a> highlights how our oceans' health is threatened by global warming.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-fewer-nutrients-at-the-ocean-s-surface">Fewer nutrients at the ocean's surface</h2>



"Model studies have suggested that when the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/deep-ocean-fishes-will-get-smaller-as-the-ocean-warms/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ocean warms</a> it gets more stratified, which can drain certain parts of the surface ocean of nutrients," said Adam Martiny, a professor of Earth system science and one of the study’s lead authors.



In simpler terms, the warmer our oceans get, the fewer nutrients are available at the surface. This may slow marine primary productivity, causing cascading effects throughout food webs, noted the researchers. 



"However, observing changes in upper ocean nutrients is challenging because surface concentrations are often below detection limits."



The research team, led by graduate student Skylar Gerace, analyzed 50 years of nutrient data taken from the Global Ocean Ship-based Hydrographic Investigations Program (GO-SHIP).



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-cascading-effects-in-the-food-chain">Cascading effects in the food chain</h2>



The researchers identified a significant decline in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/lack-of-phosphorus-will-limit-growth-of-the-amazon-rainforest/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">phosphorus</a>, a nutrient vital for the health of marine food webs, particularly in southern hemisphere oceans.



"There can be cascading effects up the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/climate-change-damages-the-base-of-the-marine-food-web/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">food web</a>. When <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/arctic-heatwaves-have-complex-effects-on-phytoplankton-food-web/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">phytoplankton</a> have less phosphorus, they become less nutritious, which can impair zooplankton and fish growth rates,” said Gerace.



The researchers found that concentrations of nitrate, another nutrient vital for ecosystem functioning, appear to remain steady. 



However, Professor Martiny noted that nitrate concentrations may still decline in the future as the climate continues to change.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-phosphorus-limitation-is-expanding">Phosphorus limitation is expanding</h2>



"The temporal trends of these depths revealed that upper ocean phosphate is mostly declining, while nitrate is mostly stable," wrote the study authors.



"Using Earth System Models, we demonstrate that this difference is likely due to decreasing iron stress for nitrogen fixation, which replenishes nitrate with increasing stratification."



According to the researchers, the findings suggest that phosphorus limitation is expanding throughout the ocean, consequently bringing many important implications for marine ecosystems.



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



Professor Martiny highlights the importance of initiatives like GO-SHIP for conducting research of this kind. 



Without the empirical data collected by such seafaring missions, there would be no way to verify the accuracy of climate model forecasts.



The team is excited about the next steps in their research. The goal is to measure the impact of changing nutrient cycles on <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-does-extreme-weather-impact-marine-ecosystems/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">marine ecosystems</a> as climate change continues.



“We aim to investigate how this nutrient metric relates with broader ecosystem dynamics throughout the ocean, such as primary productivity," said Gerace.



The researchers hope that their measurements can serve as a comprehensive indicator for monitoring marine ecosystems as the oceans continue to warm and stratify.



The findings may ultimately provide scientists and policymakers with much-needed data to address the often neglected underwater effects of climate change.



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



The loss of nutrients in the ocean doesn’t just harm microscopic marine life; it has ripple effects on global fisheries and food security. 



Some of the world’s most important fisheries for fish such as anchovies, sardines, and tuna rely on nutrient-rich waters to support the plankton populations they feed on. 



A decrease in phosphorus could lead to decreases in ocean primary productivity, meaning smaller fish stocks and disruptions in the seafood industry.



Changing the nutrient dynamics could have significant impacts on fishing communities that heavily rely on fishing as a source of food and income.



Scientists are closely monitoring these shifts, which might reshape marine ecosystems in ways that are difficult to reverse.



The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://www.pnas.org/doi/10.1073/pnas.2411835122" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences</a>.



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Climate change is draining nutrients from the ocean's surface

Climate change is reshaping our oceans in ways that often...

Earth, the only known planet to support life, owes much of its habitability to water. Understanding when and how water arrived on Earth is crucial for piecing together the story of life’s origins. 



Scientists have long debated whether water was present from the planet’s formation or if it arrived later through external sources. 



A recent study led by a Rutgers-New Brunswick scientist challenges existing theories, suggesting that water arrived much later than <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/water-cycles-through-plants-with-unexpected-speed/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">previously believed</a>.



The findings indicate that Earth received water toward the final stages of its formation. This discovery could reshape scientific understanding of the conditions necessary for life.



By examining isotopes in Earth’s rocks and comparing them with meteorites, researchers have provided new insights into the timing and process of water’s arrival on our planet.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-timing-of-life-s-origins">Timing of life’s origins</h2>



Scientists seek to pinpoint when key <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/comets-may-have-delivered-water-to-earth/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ingredients for life</a> first appeared on Earth. Water, energy, and a mix of organic chemicals known as CHNOPS - carbon, hydrogen, nitrogen, oxygen, phosphorus, and sulfur - are essential for life to emerge. 



Determining when these components arrived can offer clues about the timing of life’s formation.



Katherine Bermingham is an associate professor in the <a href="https://eps.rutgers.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Department of Earth and Planetary Sciences</a> at Rutgers and lead author of the study.



“When water was delivered to the planet is a major unanswered question in planetary science,” said Bermingham. “If we know the answer, we can better constrain when and how life developed.”



Her research suggests that water was not present during the early phases of Earth’s formation, as some theories propose. Instead, the planet acquired it much later through a process known as late accretion, when additional material from space continued to shape Earth.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-examining-the-building-blocks-of-planets">Examining the building blocks of planets</h2>



Bermingham specializes in cosmogeochemistry, a field that examines the chemical composition of planetary materials to understand their origins. 



By analyzing Earth rocks and extraterrestrial materials such as meteorites, she investigates how rocky planets, including Earth, formed and evolved.



In this study, Bermingham’s team used thermal ionization mass spectrometry, a precise method for measuring isotopic compositions. 



They developed a new analytical approach to examine isotopes of molybdenum, an element found in both Earth’s crust and meteorites.



Isotopes are variations of an element with the same number of protons but different numbers of neutrons, which gives them slightly different atomic masses while maintaining identical <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/distress-signals-earths-water-cycle-is-becoming-more-erratic/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">chemical properties</a>.



“The molybdenum isotopic composition of Earth rocks provides us with a special window into events occurring around the time of Earth’s final core formation, when the last 10% to 20% of material was being assembled by the planet. This period is thought to coincide with the Moon’s formation,” explained Bermingham.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-comparing-meteorites-and-earth-rocks">Comparing meteorites and Earth rocks</h2>



To track Earth’s early chemical history, the team examined meteorite samples from the National Museum of Natural History at the Smithsonian Institution. Scientists classify meteorites into two main groups based on their place of origin in the solar system.



The first group, known as “CC” meteorites, likely formed in the outer solar system, where conditions were wetter. The second group, “NC” meteorites, originated in the inner solar system, where conditions were much drier. 



This study focused on meteorites from the NC group to compare their chemical composition with Earth rocks.



The researchers analyzed molybdenum isotopes in rocks from Greenland, South Africa, Canada, the United States, and Japan. 



These rocks date back to the time of the Moon’s formation and are believed to contain elements added to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/earth-other-planets-collected-first-water-from-unexpected-source-planetesimals/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Earth</a> during this period.



By comparing the isotopic signatures of meteorites and Earth rocks, the team sought to determine whether the Moon-forming event delivered a significant amount of water to Earth.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-earth-s-water-may-have-arrived-late">Earth’s water may have arrived late</h2>



“Once we gathered the different samples and measured their isotopic compositions, we compared the meteorites’ signatures with the rock signatures to see if there was a similarity or a difference,” Bermingham said. “And from there, we drew inferences.”



The analysis revealed that the molybdenum composition of Earth rocks closely matched that of NC meteorites, which originated in the drier inner solar system. 



This finding suggests that Earth’s building blocks primarily came from a region of the solar system where water was scarce.



This contradicts a popular theory that a significant amount of Earth’s water arrived during the Moon-forming event. 



Instead, the study indicates that water was delivered in smaller amounts long after the Moon formed, during the later stages of planetary development.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-rethinking-the-source-of-earth-s-water">Rethinking the source of Earth’s water</h2>



“We have to figure out from where in our solar system Earth's <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/stunning-discovery-earths-building-blocks-contained-water/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">building blocks</a> - the dust and the gas - came and around when that happened,” Bermingham said. “That’s the information needed to understand when the stage was set for life to begin.”



If most of Earth’s original material came from the drier inner solar system, then the Moon-forming event was likely not a major contributor of water. Instead, water must have arrived in smaller portions later. 



This conclusion challenges the idea that a single event provided Earth with the majority of its water. 



The study supports the view that water accumulated gradually over time, arriving through a combination of asteroid impacts and other processes occurring well after the planet had taken shape.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-questions-about-life-s-early-conditions">Questions about life’s early conditions</h2>



“Our results suggest that the Moon-forming event was not a major supplier of water, unlike what has been thought previously,” Bermingham said. “These findings, however, permit a small amount of water to be added after final core formation, during what is called late accretion.”



This discovery raises new questions about how long it took for Earth to become habitable. If water arrived later than previously thought, then life may have taken longer to emerge. 



This could also have implications for understanding other planets, particularly those that scientists consider candidates for life.



By refining the timeline of Earth’s water history, this study contributes to a broader effort to understand planetary evolution. If water arrived late on Earth, then other planets might have followed a similar pattern. 



This could mean that life-supporting conditions take longer to develop than scientists once assumed.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-s-next-in-the-search-for-earth-s-water">What’s next in the search for Earth’s water?</h2>



The study represents a step forward in unraveling Earth’s past, but it also highlights the many unanswered questions about the origins of water and life. 



Future research will likely focus on refining models of planetary accretion, analyzing additional meteorite samples, and exploring other isotopic markers that could provide further insights.



Other Rutgers contributors to the study include Linda Godfrey, an assistant research professor, and Hope Tornebene, a laboratory researcher in the Department of Earth and Planetary Sciences. 



The research continues to push the boundaries of planetary science, bringing us closer to understanding how Earth became a world capable of supporting life.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0016703724005751?via%3Dihub" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Geochimica et Cosmochimica Acta</a>.



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Water arrived on Earth gradually over time, not in one big event

Earth, the only known planet to support life, owes much...

Earth is changing faster than many people realize, and more voices are calling for urgent responses to climate-related threats. 



Many health professionals see daily reminders of how shifting temperatures and extreme weather can harm public well-being. One approach gaining traction is the use of satellite and space-based data to map environmental risks.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-monitoring-climate-threats-with-satellites">Monitoring climate threats with satellites</h2>



“The space sector has been in the forefront of innovation, taking on challenges often thought to be impossible and also against all odds,” said Dr. Farhan Asrar, a physician and researcher affiliated with the University of Toronto.



Dr. Asrar's work highlights how <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/nisar-the-satellite-that-will-change-how-we-see-earth/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">space technologies</a> can address some of the biggest climate threats.



"Space-based tools, including remote sensing data and technologies, offer unique insights that can strengthen climate resilience, support sustainable policies, and enable real-time monitoring to address the escalating global environmental challenges," wrote Dr. Asrar.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-tracking-air-quality-with-satellites">Tracking air quality with satellites</h2>



Poor air quality is a growing issue connected to asthma, heart disease, and other conditions. Nearly 99% of the global population breathes air that does not meet recommended <a href="https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/climate-change-and-health" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">standards</a>.



Space agencies maintain satellites that collect real-time climate <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/earthcare-satellite-will-reveal-the-climate-effects-of-clouds/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">information</a> on pollutants, temperatures, and greenhouse gases. This gives health professionals the opportunity to see emerging patterns before they become full-blown emergencies.



By pairing satellite observations with patient data, governments and care providers can gauge which communities are at the highest risk.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-predicting-climate-driven-disease-risks">Predicting climate-driven disease risks</h2>



Climate change extends the range of <a href="https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/vector-borne-diseases" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">vector-borne diseases</a>, as higher temperatures allow mosquitoes and other carriers thrive in new areas. Satellite imagery can track the environmental factors - like water and vegetation - that help these vectors multiply.



When integrated with ground-based health data, satellite imagery can help pinpoint potential outbreaks of infectious diseases such as malaria or dengue. Public health officials can use the information to strategize interventions in advance.



Past analyses of remote sensing data supported <a href="https://www.cambridge.org/core/journals/data-and-policy/article/examining-the-value-of-satellite-data-in-halting-transmission-of-polio-in-nigeria-a-socioeconomic-analysis/73EF7CA1DEEEEDA0292C068246D27217?utm_source=chatgpt.com" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">vaccine distribution</a> for threats like polio, highlighting the practical benefits of combining space observations with epidemiological expertise.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-improving-climate-disaster-response">Improving climate disaster response</h2>



Extreme weather events are becoming <a href="https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/10962247.2021.1942319#abstract" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">more frequent</a>, and early warning systems can save lives by guiding evacuation plans. Satellites monitor hurricanes, floods, and wildfires, providing insights that local teams can act on.



“The <a href="https://disasterscharter.org/about-the-charter" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Disaster Charter</a> I referred to, it provides free satellite images when a disaster arises to support the relief efforts and it has been activated over 900 times, providing satellite images to all even to countries who do not have any satellites of their own,” noted Dr. Asrar. 



This resource, along with platforms like the United Nations Platform for Space-based Information for Disaster Management and Emergency Response (<a href="https://www.unoosa.org/oosa/en/ourwork/un-spider/index.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">UN-SPIDER</a>), provide critical assistance to regions with limited access to advanced technology.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-addressing-global-health-crises">Addressing global health crises</h2>



Many experts emphasize the <a href="https://www.cdc.gov/one-health/about/index.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">One Health</a> approach, which recognizes the links between human, animal, and environmental health. 



Public health leaders who appreciate these connections can use space data to track deforestation, water quality, and changing temperatures that affect both ecosystems and our own well-being.



“My <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S266727822400083X" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">research</a> in finding innovative solutions (using space-based technologies to address climate change and related global health crises) has shown me that it is crucial to collaborate with others, and also to have an interdisciplinary and multidisciplinary approach, thus it is bringing together expertise from various perspectives and experiences to address a challenge,” said Dr. Asrar. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-real-time-climate-monitoring-with-satellites">Real-time climate monitoring with satellites </h2>



As more space missions launch, an influx of <a href="https://climate.esa.int/en/odp/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">data</a> will help us track shifting <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/satellite-mission-will-closely-monitor-changes-on-earths-surface/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">environmental patterns</a> in near-real time.



Scientists plan to refine these tools by integrating real-time climate monitoring, predictive modeling, and health data analytics, allowing health professionals to anticipate and respond more swiftly to weather-related disasters and disease outbreaks. 



By enhancing early warning systems and resource allocation strategies, these improvements can help mitigate the health impacts of extreme heat, hurricanes, floods, and the spread of climate-sensitive diseases.



Advocates emphasize that blending satellite-derived climate data with on-the-ground knowledge from local communities, healthcare workers, and policymakers provides a more comprehensive understanding of risks. 



The research is published in <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S266727822400083X" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">The Journal of Climate Change and Health</a>.



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Satellites might be the unlikely heroes in the climate crisis

Earth is changing faster than many people realize, and more...

Urban environments are complex ecosystems where pollution, weather patterns, and human activities constantly interact. Among the many factors shaping urban climates, airborne particles play a crucial role in influencing cloud formation and radiation balance. 



These particles affect how sunlight is absorbed or reflected, how clouds develop, and even how precipitation forms.



Traditionally, scientific research has focused on primary particles - those emitted directly from vehicle exhaust, industrial processes, and other sources. However, new particles formed through <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/understanding-how-air-pollution-forms-may-help-us-prevent-it/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">atmospheric reactions</a> have received far less attention.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-impact-on-climate-regulation">Impact on climate regulation</h2>



Despite their invisible presence, these secondary particles significantly impact climate regulation. Recent findings suggest that scientists may have underestimated their role in urban climate systems.



A study published in the journal One Earth provides strong evidence that new particles in urban areas influence atmospheric processes in ways that were previously overlooked. This new understanding could reshape approaches to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/millions-of-deaths-in-india-linked-to-air-pollution/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">air quality management</a> and climate mitigation strategies.



"To accurately assess the climate effects of particles, we need comprehensive long-term vertical observations," noted Academician Markku Kulmala from the Institute for Atmospheric and Earth System Research (INAR) at the University of Helsinki.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-why-urban-particles-matter-for-climate">Why urban particles matter for climate</h2>



Urban air pollution is a well-documented problem, but most studies have primarily focused on what happens at ground level. 



The formation of new particles occurs in the atmosphere itself, driven by chemical reactions between pollutants and natural compounds. These newly formed particles can grow in size and eventually influence cloud development, which in turn affects local and regional <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/air-pollution-impacts-brain-development-in-children/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">climates</a>.



Cities produce a variety of gaseous emissions that act as precursors for particle formation. When these gases mix with atmospheric compounds, they create new particles that rise and spread through different layers of the atmosphere. 



The extent to which these particles impact climate has remained uncertain due to the difficulty of measuring them at various altitudes.



Recognizing this gap, researchers have turned to advanced monitoring methods to capture the full picture of urban particle behavior. By shifting the focus from ground-based observations to a more comprehensive vertical analysis, they have uncovered new insights into how particle formation varies at different heights.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-role-of-altitude-in-particle-formation">Role of altitude in particle formation</h2>



The researchers conducted their study using a 325-meter meteorological tower in Beijing, one of the tallest atmospheric research platforms in the world. 



This tower allowed the team to measure particle formation at multiple heights, providing a clearer understanding of how these processes differ at various atmospheric levels.



The findings revealed that particle formation is far more pronounced at higher altitudes than previously assumed. Factors such as increased sulfuric acid concentration and higher relative humidity contribute to particle growth in the upper layers of the urban atmosphere. 



This suggests that air pollution dynamics in cities are far more layered and complex than traditional ground-level measurements have shown. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-full-picture-of-urban-particle-dynamics">Full picture of urban particle dynamics </h2>



“The enhanced particle formation aloft suggests that while ground-level measurements provide valuable insights, they may not capture the full picture of particle dynamics, particularly in densely populated urban areas,” said study lead author Wei Du.



By analyzing particles at different heights, researchers discovered that elevated regions of the atmosphere serve as active zones for new <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/global-air-quality-trends-revealed-in-new-images/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">particle formation</a>. 



These findings suggest that policymakers and scientists must consider vertical air movement when assessing air pollution and climate impacts.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-urban-particles-and-cloud-formation">Urban particles and cloud formation</h2>



Clouds play a crucial role in regulating Earth’s climate by reflecting sunlight and distributing moisture. 



The process of cloud formation depends on cloud condensation nuclei (CCN), which provide surfaces for water vapor to condense into droplets. Many of these nuclei originate from newly formed particles in the atmosphere.



When gaseous emissions rise and interact with chemicals at higher altitudes, they contribute to the growth of these tiny particles. As they increase in size, they become more effective at attracting water vapor and forming clouds. 



The study found that the impact of new particles on CCN has been underestimated by around 20%, highlighting the need for more accurate climate models that include vertical <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-air-pollution-impacts-brain-health/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">particle behavior</a>.



The ability of these particles to influence cloud formation means they also affect temperature regulation and precipitation patterns. This has wide-ranging implications for urban climates, which are already experiencing shifts due to increasing pollution and global climate change.



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



The study’s findings go beyond scientific discovery and have important real-world applications. Cities around the world are grappling with <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/135-million-people-died-prematurely-due-to-pm25-air-pollution/">air pollution</a> and climate-related challenges, making it essential to develop policies that address the full complexity of atmospheric processes.



By understanding how new particles behave at different altitudes, urban planners and policymakers can create more effective strategies to manage pollution and mitigate climate impacts.



“As cities continue to grapple with air pollution and climate challenges, understanding the vertical profiles of atmospheric processes can help develop more effective strategies to mitigate their impacts on both climate and public health,” noted Wei Du.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-collaborative-approach">A collaborative approach</h2>



This study represents a collaborative effort between leading institutions, including the <a href="https://www.helsinki.fi/en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Helsinki</a> and the Chinese Academy of Sciences. 



Scientists from multiple disciplines contributed to the research, highlighting the importance of international cooperation in addressing climate challenges.



“The Beijing 325 m Meteorological Tower is a unique research platform for atmospheric and climate science in megacities. We are pleased to collaborate with international partners to address climate change together,” said Yele Sun, professor at the <a href="https://english.cas.cn" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Chinese Academy of Sciences</a>.



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



By expanding the scope of climate research to include vertical measurements, scientists are gaining a more complete understanding of how urban atmospheric particles behave and influence climate. 



These insights can shape future climate policies, helping cities adapt to environmental changes while improving air quality for millions of people.



As research continues, long-term monitoring will be key to refining climate models and identifying more effective solutions for pollution control. 



This study marks an important step in that direction, emphasizing the need to look beyond ground-level observations and consider the full atmospheric picture.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.cell.com/one-earth/fulltext/S2590-3322(24)00599-2" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">One Earth</a>.



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Climate effects of particles in urban air have been underestimated

Urban environments are complex ecosystems where pollution, weather patterns, and...

In 2023, researchers made a remarkable discovery in the Barents Sea: the Borealis mud volcano. This underwater geological wonder quickly captured global attention as images of the marine volcano spread across the world.



Now, a collaborative effort between scientists from <a href="https://en.uit.no" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">UiT</a> and REV Ocean has reported findings that highlight the ecological significance of this unique formation. 



According to the research, Borealis serves as a natural haven for numerous <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/marine-protected-areas-fall-short-on-2030-biodiversity-targets/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">marine species</a>, and plays a vital role in the biodiversity of the Barents Sea.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-stable-surface-of-a-mud-volcano">Stable surface of a mud volcano </h2>



The crater floor of Borealis presents a range of environments, with some areas appearing unwelcoming to life. However, the carbonate crusts - mineral formations that are thousands of years old - offer a stable surface for various organisms.



Anemones, serpulids, demosponges, and sparse octocoral <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/world-ocean-day-a-unified-approach-to-protect-biodiversity/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">colonies</a> have all found a home on these structures. Important for maintaining biodiversity, these carbonates also provide both shelter and feeding opportunities that support local fish populations.



"Sampling and imagery reveal that Borealis supports unique habitats adapted to low-oxygen conditions near methane seeps," noted the researchers.



"Additionally, the irregularly shaped carbonate structures serve as a natural shelter from bottom trawling and a substratum for sessile fauna and may&nbsp;function as nursery grounds for threatened fish species."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-sanctuary-for-marine-life">A sanctuary for marine life</h2>



During their observations, the researchers noted large groups of commercially valuable fish species gathering around the jagged carbonate formations. These included saithe, spotted wolffish, cod, four-bearded rockling, and redfish (Sebastes spp.).



"The redfish, for instance, is red listed, and we don’t know the consequences if it would disappear," noted Professor Giuliana Panieri, the lead author of the study.



"Borealis is an oasis where different species can thrive and flourish. Thus, preserving ecosystems such as the Borealis&nbsp;mud volcano is essential for maintaining biodiversity and understanding the interactions between geology, geochemistry, and biology in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/marine-protected-areas-have-spillover-benefits-around-the-world/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">marine environments</a>." 



Panieri also highlighted the broader implications of this work, particularly in light of ongoing oil and gas extraction activities and the emerging deep-sea mining industry in the Arctic. 



Understanding these ecosystems is critical for sustainable management of the region's resources.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-geological-insights-from-borealis">Geological insights from Borealis</h2>



In May 2024, aboard the research vessel Kronprins Haakon, scientists revisited the site using the remotely operated vehicle (ROV) Aurora. The investigation confirmed earlier findings and revealed new details about the volcano’s characteristics.



For instance, the surroundings of Borealis are warmed to 11.5 degrees Celsius (53 degrees Fahrenheit), which is significantly higher than the typical seabed temperature of around 4 degrees Celsius (39 degrees Fahrenheit).



The team also discovered sediments containing extinct microscopic <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-marine-protected-areas-boost-human-health/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">marine organisms</a> dating back up to 2.5 million years. 



Additionally, small "mud cones" within the volcanic system were found to emit methane-rich fluids. Extensive carbonate deposits around the volcano suggest that methane has been leaking out for thousands of years.



"The Borealis mud volcano is a unique geological and ecological phenomenon that provides a rare insight into the complex interactions between geological processes and marine ecosystems," said Panieri.



"It is important to preserve these unique habitats, which play a crucial role in maintaining marine biodiversity." 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-protecting-marine-ecosystems">Protecting marine ecosystems </h2>



Professor Panieri emphasized Norway’s commitment to the 30x30 target, which aims to protect 30% of land and sea by 2030.



This initiative includes safeguarding marine ecosystems, even in the deep sea. Protecting large areas of the deep-sea floor along the Norwegian margin could help create refuges that support the restoration of benthic biological communities.



"The new findings show the power of international cooperation and how such cooperation can contribute to increasing our understanding of the world's oceans," said Panieri.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-mud-volcano-shaping-marine-ecosystems">Mud volcano shaping marine ecosystems</h2>



The Borealis mud volcano stands as a remarkable example of how geological features can shape marine ecosystems.



Its unique environment not only supports diverse marine life but also offers insights into the intricate connections between geology and biology. As humanity continues to explore and utilize <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/earths-oceans-are-rapidly-changing-colors-matching-climate-predictions/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ocean resources</a>, protecting such sites becomes increasingly important. 



The research was a collaborative effort involving scientists from multiple institutions, including <a href="https://www.revocean.org" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">REV Ocean</a>, The Nippon Foundation-Nekton <a href="https://oceancensus.org" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Ocean Census</a>, and the <a href="https://www.whoi.edu/who-we-are/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Woods Hole </a>Oceanographic Institution.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41467-024-55712-x" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature Communications</a>.



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Underwater mud volcano harbors marine life in the Arctic

In 2023, researchers made a remarkable discovery in the Barents...

A new study reveals that rat infestations in many cities worldwide are on the rise, with Washington, D.C. emerging as the biggest hotspot. 



The study, which was focused on rat sighting reports from 16 global cities, attributes the increasing rat populations to warming temperatures, urbanization, and other human activities.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-rat-sightings-on-the-rise">Rat sightings on the rise</h2>



The researchers conducted a first-of-its-kind analysis using publicly submitted rat complaint data. They discovered that in 11 of the 16 cities analyzed, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/rats-have-a-very-complex-social-life/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">rat</a> sightings have increased in recent years. 



Based on individual city trends, Washington D.C. led the pack, followed by San Francisco, Toronto, New York City, and Amsterdam. According to the study, the rat reporting trend in Washington D.C. was three times greater than that of Boston. 



Only three cities - New Orleans, Louisville, and Tokyo - experienced significant decreases in rat reports, with New Orleans showing the largest drop. The experts suggest that New Orleans’ strategies could serve as a model for other cities seeking to control rat populations.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-key-drivers-of-rat-population-growth">Key drivers of rat population growth </h2>



The research team performed statistical analyses of rat sighting reports and concluded that a little over 40% of the rising trend is due to warming temperatures. 



This <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/rapid-surge-in-global-warming-may-have-an-unexpected-source/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">warming</a> is primarily a result of burning coal, oil, and natural gas, which leads to milder winters and longer foraging periods for rats. 



Study lead author Jonathan Richardson, a biologist at the <a href="https://www.richmond.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Richmond</a>, explained the mechanism.



“We're seeing these increasing trends in rats in cities that are warming the fastest, probably because this is a small mammal that has physiological challenges in the cold weather months,” said Richardson.&nbsp;



“If we're warming the climate and winter starts a week or two later and spring arrives a week or two earlier, that's one, two, maybe even three or four weeks across the entire year where those rats can be above ground foraging, acquiring more food and maybe squeezing out one or two more reproductive cycles.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-urbanization-and-higher-population-density">Urbanization and higher population density </h2>



Even a few extra weeks of activity can have a dramatic effect, given that female rats can produce a litter every month. With each litter consisting of eight to 16 pups, this additional time significantly accelerates population growth.



In addition to the effects of warming, the study identified increased <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/urbanization-is-a-threat-to-78-of-the-worlds-bird-species/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">urbanization</a> and higher population densities as major factors. Rats thrive in built environments where food waste is abundant and human activity creates numerous shelters.&nbsp;



The experts note that these conditions allow rats to flourish in areas where people and their refuse provide a constant source of sustenance.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-rats-nature-s-ultimate-urban-survivors">Rats: Nature’s ultimate urban survivors</h2>



Rats have evolved to be remarkably adaptive in urban settings. New York City rat czar Kathleen Corradi stated during a conference that the rat is the third most successful mammal behind humans and house mice. So it evolved and engineered to live alongside us.&nbsp;



“They followed humans, Homo sapiens, across the continents and are in every single continent except Antarctica. So it's considered a wicked problem.”



Their ability to adapt and survive in close proximity to humans explains why rat populations are expanding even as cities implement various control measures.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-consequences-of-rising-rat-populations">Consequences of rising rat populations</h2>



While rats are undeniably adaptable, their increasing numbers pose serious risks. When rodent populations soar, public health and urban infrastructure can suffer. 



"When rodent populations are high, people get sick, motor vehicles become disabled, mental health declines, fires are started and foods fouled," said Houston rat expert Michael Parsons, who was not involved in the study.



This statement captures the multifaceted impact of rat infestations. High rat populations can lead to increased transmission of diseases, disruption of transportation systems, and other societal challenges. 



People are understandably disturbed by rats, primarily due to an instinctive fear of creatures that can transmit disease.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-quantifying-city-rats">Quantifying city rats</h2>



Rats are notoriously difficult to count accurately due to their secretive and elusive nature. The study did not count rats directly; instead, it analyzed rat sighting complaints submitted by city residents. 



Although these reports may not reflect the actual number of rats, they provide valuable insight into trends over time. Richardson emphasized that the long-term consistency of the reporting methods used in the study lends credibility to the observed trends.



Even though Washington D.C. exhibited the highest rate of increase, Richardson clarified that this does not necessarily mean the city has the most rats overall - it simply indicates that the number of rat complaints is rising faster than in other cities.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-prevention-over-poison">Prevention over poison</h2>



The study's findings suggest that traditional methods of rat control, such as poisoning and trapping, may not be sufficient to combat the escalating problem. 



Instead, prevention measures appear to be more effective. In cities like New Orleans, public authorities are taking proactive steps. 



For instance, educational workshops and community campaigns focus on reducing conditions that attract rats, such as improper waste management and excess food availability.



“In New Orleans they make a big effort to get out into neighborhoods and do educational workshops and campaigns to talk to residents about what makes a property less likely to have rats,” Richardson said.



Similarly, New York City has initiated innovative strategies, including replacing street garbage bags with rat-resistant containers and forming an elite volunteer group known as the “NYC rat pack.” 



Early results from these initiatives are promising, although comprehensive data have yet to fully reflect their impact.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-complex-urban-challenge">A complex urban challenge</h2>



While it is possible to better manage rat populations through improved urban planning and public education, complete eradication is unrealistic. 



As <a href="https://umich.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Michigan</a> conservation scientist Neil Carter pointed out, we can fight them better, but in the end “people need to coexist with <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/study-addresses-the-global-need-for-human-wildlife-coexistence/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">wildlife</a> in urban environments, even with rats.”



“Zero rats is impossible," noted Richardson. “But I think an expectation that we need to live with the number of rats that we're seeing in many of these cities is also an unhealthy perspective on this problem.”



In conclusion, this study offers a critical, data-driven look at the complex factors driving rat population growth in urban environments. 



As cities continue to warm, expand, and densify, the challenge of managing rat populations will require innovative and sustainable approaches that focus on prevention and public awareness.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://dx.doi.org/10.1126/sciadv.ads6782" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Science Advances</a>.



Image Credit: AP Photo/Mary Altaffer



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Rat populations are increasing in cities as temperatures rise

A new study reveals that rat infestations in many cities...

Humanity faces a crucial turning point in its relationship with nature. A new global report warns that biodiversity is declining at an alarming rate, and people must take immediate action to address the crisis.



Scientists emphasize that <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/we-must-live-in-harmony-with-nature-to-create-a-sustainable-future/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">reconnecting with nature</a> can drive meaningful change. The Transformative Change Report highlights the steps required to shift societal values and behaviors for a more sustainable world.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-our-relationship-with-nature">Our relationship with nature</h2>



The study, led by the Intergovernmental Science-Policy Platform on Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services (<a href="https://www.ipbes.net" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">IPBES</a>), focuses on the underlying causes of environmental degradation. 



It explains how <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/tackling-the-dual-crises-of-climate-and-nature/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">transformation</a> occurs and provides guidance on how to accelerate it. The report gathers insights from over 100 experts across 42 countries, each bringing a unique perspective on safeguarding the planet.



Among the contributors is Professor Miles Richardson from the <a href="https://www.derby.ac.uk" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Derby</a>. As a UK Government-nominated lead author, he has played a vital role in shaping the report’s recommendations. 



His expertise in nature connectedness sheds light on how people’s relationship with the natural world can drive lasting change.



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



The report’s key message is both urgent and profound. A fundamental shift is needed in how society views and interacts with <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/new-green-tech-ammonia-fertilizer-production-using-earths-natural-forces/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">nature</a>. Current efforts often focus on mitigating damage, but long-term sustainability requires deeper changes in values and priorities.



"I have always believed nature connectedness is an essential and powerful strategy for the transformative change needed to address the environmental crises," said Professor Richardson.



The experts emphasize the role of policy in mainstreaming nature connection. They suggest integrating it into education, healthcare, and urban planning.



Additionally, they explore the importance of storytelling in shaping public perception, encouraging people to imagine a future where humans and nature thrive together rather than one defined by restrictions and loss.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-positive-future-for-people-and-nature">A positive future for people and nature</h2>



The report identifies five key strategies for advancing sustainability. One focuses on restoring and regenerating places of cultural and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/we-can-prevent-future-pandemics-by-protecting-nature/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ecological importance</a>. 



Another highlights the need to shift dominant societal views to recognize and prioritize human-nature relationships. Without such changes, sustainability efforts will remain incomplete.



"Shifting dominant societal views and values to recognize and prioritize human-nature connectedness is a massive undertaking. With the disconnection of people from nature identified as a central issue and nature connectedness as a solution, there might be more awareness and willingness to engage," noted Professor Richardson.



For decades, environmental policies have aimed to fix specific problems, such as deforestation and carbon emissions. While these efforts are important, they often fail to address the deeper issue - how humans perceive and interact with the natural world.



The report argues that true sustainability requires transforming this relationship at its core.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-strengthening-the-nature-connection">Strengthening the nature connection</h2>



Scientific research plays a critical role in shaping policies and strategies that reconnect people with nature. The findings of the Transformative Change Report align with the ongoing work of the University of Derby’s Nature Connectedness Research Group.



Led by Professor Richardson, alongside researchers David Sheffield and Kirsten McEwan, the group explores ways to enhance nature connectedness in daily life.



The research focuses on practical interventions that help people develop a deeper appreciation for nature. 



By understanding the psychological and emotional aspects of this connection, the experts aim to create lasting behavioral change. Their work provides evidence-based solutions that support the report’s recommendations.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-moving-beyond-policy">Moving beyond policy</h2>



The report does not solely call for government-led interventions. It also highlights the role of individuals in driving change. 



Small shifts in daily habits, such as spending more time outdoors, appreciating natural beauty, and reducing consumption, can contribute to a larger transformation.



The report suggests that promoting a sense of nature connection in early childhood can have long-term benefits, influencing behaviors and attitudes across generations.



This perspective aligns with the work of the Nature Connectedness Research Group, which emphasizes practical approaches to deepening people’s relationship with nature. 



By making these ideas more accessible, the research group hopes to inspire broader participation in efforts to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/nature-based-climate-solutions-are-now-more-critical-than-ever/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">protect the environment</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-sustainable-future">A sustainable future</h2>



The <a href="https://www.ipbes.net/transformative-change/media-release" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Transformative Change Report</a> presents a clear vision for a more sustainable world. It highlights the importance of changing societal values, strengthening nature connectedness, and integrating these concepts into policy and daily life.



This moment presents a unique opportunity. While the challenges are significant, the solutions exist. By rethinking the way people relate to nature, humanity can take meaningful steps toward a healthier planet. 



The urgency is clear, but so is the potential for positive change. Reconnecting with nature is not just an option - it is essential for ensuring a sustainable future for all.



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People must reconnect with nature now to save biodiversity

Humanity faces a crucial turning point in its relationship with...

Yellowstone National Park boasts some of the most iconic geothermal features in the United States. Beneath those colorful hot springs and spewing geysers sits a volcanic system that has captured the attention of geologists for decades.



Recent <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41586-024-08286-z" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">findings</a> discuss how molten material may one day break the surface in a corner of this ancient hotspot. 



According to Ninfa Bennington of the U.S. Geological Survey (<a href="https://www.usgs.gov" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">USGS</a>), new instruments revealed four distinct magma bodies beneath Yellowstone, yet only the northeastern one appears poised for <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/earths-next-big-volcano-eruption-will-cause-global-chaos-climate-impact/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">far-future activity</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-yellowstone-s-history-of-massive-eruptions">Yellowstone's history of massive eruptions</h2>



Researchers have long noted three massive eruptions in Yellowstone over roughly two million years. 



Those events left behind giant <a href="https://education.nationalgeographic.org/resource/calderas/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">calderas</a>, which are vast volcanic depressions formed when large volumes of magma empty and cause the ground to collapse.



Such colossal blasts are uncommon, so experts analyze lingering heat and rock structures to understand how these systems evolve. Each caldera tells a different part of the story, offering clues about what lies below.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-tracking-magma-deep-underground">Tracking magma deep underground</h2>



Specialists use <a href="https://epic.earthscope.org/content/instrumentation/magnetotelluric-systems-epic" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">magnetotelluric instruments</a> to detect electrical signals that reveal melted rock under the surface. 



The devices measure conductivity, allowing scientists to map <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/axial-seamount-large-underwater-volcano-off-us-coast-will-likely-erupt-in-2025/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">magma zones</a> without drilling. This approach pinpoints subterranean areas where molten rock might accumulate.



"We find that rhyolitic melts are stored in segregated regions beneath the caldera," wrote Bennington, the study's lead author.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-northeastern-magma-body">Northeastern magma body</h2>



Among the identified <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/plants-and-trees-predict-volcano-eruptions-when-viewed-from-space-satellites/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">magma</a> bodies, only the one in Yellowstone's northeast <a href="https://www.nps.gov/yell/index.htm" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">sector</a> is expected to retain enough heat to stay partially molten long-term. 



This discovery refines older ideas that suggested multiple areas could erupt in the distant future.



"We suggest that the locus of future <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/earth-and-planetary-sciences/rhyolite" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">rhyolitic volcanism</a> has shifted to northeast Yellowstone Caldera," noted Bennington. This statement pinpoints a new center of potential volcanic action in Yellowstone.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-yellowstone-compares-to-others">How Yellowstone compares to others</h2>



Yellowstone isn't the only place on Earth with massive magma systems. In Indonesia, <a href="https://www.usgs.gov/faqs/what-a-supervolcano-what-a-supereruption" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">supervolcano</a> Toba erupted about 74,000 years ago, leading to significant global impacts.



Scientists compare Yellowstone with Toba and other large volcanic fields to see how deeply buried <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/new-research-enhances-predictions-on-volcanic-eruptions/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">magma</a> behaves over time. 



Each site adds pieces to the broader puzzle of predicting when and how these forces might surface.



Forecasting eruptions is a complex challenge. Experts watch seismic tremors, ground changes, and chemical signals to catch early warnings of magma movement.



Groups like the <a href="https://www.usgs.gov/observatories/yvo" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Yellowstone Volcano Observatory</a> share real-time updates to help the public stay informed. They typically see low-level unrest, which doesn't point to any immediate threat.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-yellowstone-eruption-fears-vs-facts">Yellowstone eruption: Fears vs. facts</h2>



Rumors about sudden cataclysms occasionally circulate. Geologists stress that supervolcano-scale eruptions require specific conditions that rarely align.



Communities near Yellowstone benefit from ongoing research that tracks small shifts in the system. This work helps reduce uncertainty and shows that colossal events happen on geological - not human - timelines.



Continued advances in imaging technology and field observations refine our <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/supervolcano-italy-solfatara-crater-phlegraean-fields-shows-signs-of-waking-up/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">understanding of underground processes</a>. 



By mapping details more precisely, researchers can spot temperature and pressure variations that might foreshadow bigger changes.



Experts emphasize that no single method gives a perfect forecast. Instead, multiple tools create a fuller view, improving how we interpret rumblings beneath our feet.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-when-supervolcanoes-erupt">When supervolcanoes erupt</h2>



When a supervolcano erupts, it blasts huge amounts of ash, gas, and lava high into the atmosphere, which then spread across vast regions of the planet. 



This ash can disrupt daily life in many ways by affecting air quality, water supplies, and transportation, to name just a few.



On a global scale, the eruption <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/volcanic-winters-weakened-the-dinosaurs-before-the-asteroid-hit/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cools the Earth's climate</a> by blocking sunlight with thick layers of ash and sulfur dioxide. 



This cooling effect, sometimes called a "<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/volcanic-cooling-not-warming-caused-a-major-mass-extinction/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">volcanic winter</a>," can lead to shorter growing seasons and widespread crop failures, affecting food supplies around the world. 



The climate shifts and environmental stress might even trigger economic and social disruptions as governments and communities adapt to the new conditions.



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



Some wonder if the northeastern sector will pose a risk anytime soon. Most geologists say it's a far-off scenario measured in thousands, if not hundreds of thousands, of years.



Still, pinpointing that region offers a step toward more focused hazard assessments. Future drilling or additional surveys may provide clues to how heat flows and magma shifts under Yellowstone's surface.



Each study enhances our understanding of how supervolcanoes work. Comparing data worldwide helps gauge the intervals between major eruptions, giving communities perspective on the pace of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/earths-volcanic-past-reveals-the-shocking-reality-of-global-warming/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">geologic change</a>.



Investigations like these highlight how Earth remains active in places we least expect. This hidden energy feeds geysers and hot springs now, and might shape landscapes in ways we can only imagine.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-standing-on-a-sleeping-giant">Standing on a sleeping giant</h2>



Millions of visitors roam Yellowstone's trails every year, drawn by dramatic scenery and wildlife. Few realize they're walking above a deep reservoir that, while dormant, still holds potential power.



Researchers remain cautious about definitive forecasts but appreciate this deeper glimpse into where future volcanic eruptions could arise in Yellowstone. 



Lessons learned from this site might guide how we monitor volcanic regions across the globe.



Current measurements reinforce that no sudden explosion is expected soon. The findings merely shine light on the structure of the system and indicate that the northeastern sector might be the stage for the next chapter.



The study is published in <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41586-024-08286-z" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature</a>.



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Yellowstone supervolcano study sparks new debate on where and when it will erupt

Yellowstone National Park boasts some of the most iconic geothermal...

Legends about a boiling, scalding river that roasts anything that falls inside may sound like fiction. Yet nestled in the Peruvian rainforest, a curious waterway <a href="https://www.ted.com/talks/andres_ruzo_the_boiling_river_of_the_amazon" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">proves</a> these stories are far from mythical.



Its waters can reach 210°F, a temperature that can cause severe burns within seconds. For decades, local communities spoke of a place so hot that small <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/cold-shocks-in-the-amazon-how-do-wild-animals-respond/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">animals perish</a> upon touching its surface.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-boiling-river-in-peru">The "Boiling River" in Peru</h2>



The "Boiling River" is located in the Mayantuyacu region of central Peru. The river’s length is around 4 miles, and it can be up to about 20 feet wide in some sections.



A team of scientists led by <a href="https://www.rileyfortier.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Riley Fortier</a>, a graduate student at the <a href="https://welcome.miami.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Miami</a>, surveyed 70 sites along this tributary. 



"It really provides us a window into the future because the Amazon will get hotter whether we like it or not, so this allows us to understand what increases in temperature will do to the forest composition," said Riley Fortier, lead author on a study of the site published in <a href="https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/epdf/10.1111/gcb.17555" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Global Change Biology</a>, and a graduate student in professor Kenneth Feeley's <a href="https://www.junglebiology.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Jungle Biology lab</a>.



The team wanted to see how extreme heat shapes the surrounding forest.



By mapping the tree and plant species from cooler upstream areas down to the scalding heart of the river, they discovered a startling drop in biological variety. 



Findings <a href="https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/epdf/10.1111/gcb.17555" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">showed</a> an 11% decline in biodiversity for each 1.8°F rise in average temperature.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-why-the-boiling-river-boils">Why the boiling river boils</h2>



Geoscientists attribute the heat to fault-fed activity, where underground water channels meet Earth’s geothermal energy. 



A fault is a <a href="https://www.usgs.gov/faqs/what-a-fault-and-what-are-different-types" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">large fracture</a> in the crust that provides a direct path for scorching fluid to surge toward the surface.



Researchers believe that rainwater infiltrating sedimentary rock becomes superheated below ground. It then emerges as a system of hot springs converging with the main watercourse, creating a natural cauldron.



“You stick your hand in, and you will see second or third degree burns in a matter of seconds,” said Ruzo, who first measured the river’s peak heat. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-signs-of-changing-forests">Signs of changing forests</h2>



Many local inhabitants regard the site with deep respect because anything that wanders too close risks a painful encounter.



Certain plants thrive on the fringes, but most large creatures struggle with the sweltering <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/tiny-microbes-in-amazon-peatlands-help-balance-the-global-climate/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">environment</a>. Adaptations are limited for organisms facing water that can reach coffee-brewing temperatures.



"Overall, the tree community is less diverse, so we see fewer species in hotter spots," Fortier said. "And forest composition was also more homogenous in the warmest locations, whereas in cooler forest plots, there was more plant diversity."



Botanical surveys from cooler sections toward the hotter stretches revealed how tree diversity narrows. In place of thick canopies, the research team documented more scrubby <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/rainforest-trees-use-rivers-as-highways-for-migration/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">vegetation</a>.



"Over the course of dozens of miles, you might expect to see dramatic changes like that, but in the small sampling area that we had, you typically wouldn't see such a clear change in composition," Fortier added.



Small species adapted to drought-like conditions gained ground as the mercury rose. Larger, slower-growing trees faded away, reflecting how intense heat reshapes even lush ecosystems.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-boiling-rivers-and-future-climate">Boiling rivers and future climate</h2>



Fortier’s data suggest that as worldwide temperatures climb, similar shifts could spread across other <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/the-amazon-rainforest-is-approaching-widespread-collapse/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">lowland rainforests</a>.



Changes may include declines in species that cannot handle additional heat and a rise in those more comfortable with higher temperatures.



Scientists note that an environment featuring fewer tree varieties will likely support fewer types of animals too. The loss of one group often sends ripples through the entire food web.



The boiling tributary, known locally as <a href="https://shanaytimpishka.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Shanay-Timpishka</a>, meaning “boiled with the heat of the sun,” stands as a stark example of what could happen if average temperatures continue to climb. 



Areas that were once rich in wildlife may morph into simpler, drier landscapes. Observers hope that studying this natural hotspot will inspire careful planning to protect sensitive habitats. 



Even though the river is unique, it signals what may lie ahead for places currently seen as safe havens for biodiversity.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ongoing-investigations">Ongoing investigations</h2>



Researchers plan to gather long-term data and explore whether <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/nearly-40-of-climate-critical-amazon-rainforest-is-unprotected/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">flora and fauna</a> can adapt to persistently higher temperatures. They will also watch for signs of any species shifting to cooler pockets.



Some scientists are examining whether the warming patterns near this location might parallel broader trends in tropical zones. 



They predict that more forests around the globe could face intense thermal stress, forcing communities to adapt or relocate.



Feeley's lab will continue its research of the boiling river, since it is such a unique place that could portend much about our natural world.



"You can't heat a whole forest, at least not artificially, which is one of the coolest aspects of the boiling river," Fortier added.



The study is published in <a href="https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/epdf/10.1111/gcb.17555" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Global Change Biology</a>.



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One river in the Amazon rainforest is so hot that it literally boils, destroying nearby biodiversity

Legends about a boiling, scalding river that roasts anything that...

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Is chocolate the next nutritional powerhouse?

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



Video Credit: Amanda Nguyen/University of Illinois



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



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Designing crops that can beat the heat

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

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



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



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



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



Video Credit: NASA Goddard&nbsp;



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



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Remote sensing will revolutionize the way we monitor trees

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

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



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



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



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



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



Video Credit: ESA&nbsp;&nbsp;



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



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Lesotho: Africa's "Kingdom in the Sky"

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



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



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



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



Video Credit: NASA Goddard



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



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...

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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The rapid retreat of the Columbia Glacier

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



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



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



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



Video/ Image Credit: NASA Goddard



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



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2022 illustrated the consequences of a warming climate

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

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



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



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



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



Video Credit: NASA Goddard&nbsp;



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



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Satellites reveal how Earth's systems are interconnected

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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Tiger sharks are shifting poleward as temperatures rise

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



Video Credit: ESA&nbsp;



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



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Melt ponds on the Greenland Ice Sheet

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



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



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



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



Video Credit: ESA



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



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Tracking changes in Earth's water cycle

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



Video Credit: NASA Goddard&nbsp;



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



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

Mysterious "spoke season" captured on Saturn

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

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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



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



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Plants help remove heavy metals from contaminated soil

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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;



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



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

Weeds are becoming increasingly resistant to herbicides

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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



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



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NASA monitors giant dust storms on Mars

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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;



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



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Qeshm Island in the Strait of Hormuz

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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



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



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Inhambane Bay in southeast Mozambique

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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



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



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Kangerlussuaq Glacier on the Greenland ice sheet

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Today’s Video of the Day from the <a href="https://www.esa.int/">European Space Agency</a> describes 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



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



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Ocean heat influences regional climate

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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



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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

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