Natural,Environment,Climate-neutral,Long-term,Emissions,Strategy,Net,Zero,2050,Carbon

Balancing cleaner air with rising incomes is not a luxury question for developing countries. It is a real-world, and real-life, policy problem that shapes health, jobs, and the future of their cities.



A new <a href="https://www.worldscientific.com/doi/10.1142/S0217590825500304" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">study</a> lays out when zero emissions can go hand in hand with steady <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/rising-temperatures-will-cut-world-gdp-by-a-staggering-40-percent-if-nothing-changes/">growth</a>, even when governments rely on foreign aid.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-zero-emissions-and-economic-growth">Zero emissions and economic growth</h2>



The work comes from <a href="https://tus.elsevierpure.com/en/persons/hideo-noda" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Hideo Noda</a> at the Tokyo University of Science (<a href="https://www.tus.ac.jp/en/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">TUS</a>) with coauthor Fengqi Fang, a Ph.D. candidate in Business Administration from the Graduate School of Business Administration at TUS. 



The team builds a simple but testable way to check if a country can hit zero net <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/global-trade-is-fueling-a-dangerous-rise-in-methane-emissions/">emissions</a> while its economy keeps expanding.



They also verify the model numerically using real world style parameters so it is not just a chalkboard exercise. 



The paper connects theory to a specific United Nations target on decoupling growth from <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/limiting-global-warming-to-1-5c-is-almost-certainly-out-of-reach/">environmental damage</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-zero-emissions-models">Zero emissions models</h2>



First, the authors define a zero-emissions <a href="https://www.un.org/en/climatechange/net-zero-coalition" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">policy</a> as keeping net pollution at zero at every point in time, by matching abatement to emissions. That requires money, technology, and clear rules to assign who pays.



They run two versions of the economy. 



One is a public goods <a href="https://scholar.harvard.edu/files/stantcheva/files/lecture8.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">model</a> where government services like roads or schools lift private production for everyone at once, a standard growth <a href="https://www.journals.uchicago.edu/doi/10.1086/261726" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">model</a> introduced by Robert Barro in 1990. 



The second adds <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/where-will-climate-change-hit-hardest-global-index-reveals-vulnerability/">congestion</a>, where more people share the same public services so the boost per person shrinks.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-minimum-income-rule">Minimum income rule</h2>



The key test is whether gross domestic product (<a href="https://data.worldbank.org/indicator/NY.GDP.PCAP.CD" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">GDP</a>) per capita rises above a minimum income threshold so a country can fully clean what it emits. 



The authors call this the kindergarten rule level of abatement, as in: “clean-up what you make dirty.”



"Following the Kindergarten rule means implementing zero emission technologies in either finite time or asymptotically," noted M. Scott Taylor and William Brock in their related <a href="https://www.nber.org/papers/w9597" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">study</a>. 



This frame anchors the new threshold concept for developing countries.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-aid-supports-clean-income-growth">Aid supports clean income growth</h2>



Many low income governments fund services with official development assistance (<a href="https://www.oecd.org/en/topics/policy-issues/official-development-assistance-oda.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ODA</a>), so the model lets outside aid pay for both cleaning and public services. 



That design reflects classic work showing how aid aimed at productive public services can shift long run growth.



In related <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0304387806000290" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">theory</a>, flexible labor and aid tied to public capital influence the path of output and welfare. The new paper extends this logic to pollution control that must be paid for every year.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-changing-income-threshold">Changing income threshold</h2>



The threshold depends on clean technology, population size, and how much aid is fixed to environmental <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/expanding-oil-and-gas-fields-threaten-global-climate-goals/">uses</a>. Better abatement technology lowers the income bar because each dollar of cleanup removes more pollution.



Population matters differently across the two models. In the public goods case, a larger labor force can raise growth because services scale with the economy, while in the congestion case that scale effect drops out as services get diluted.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-taxes-and-zero-emissions-targets">Taxes and zero emissions targets</h2>



The model also looks at tax policy, focusing on a labor income tax that finances services. 



There is a tax rate that maximizes the growth of income per person, and under both models governments can reach the needed income threshold in finite time if they choose that growth maximizing rate.



Public services that complement private capital are the link. When governments tax and spend on those services efficiently, private firms produce more and the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/climate-action-economies-can-grow-while-cutting-emissions/">economy climbs</a> to the income level that makes full abatement feasible.



"Both models indicate that implementing the zero-emissions policy is compatible with sustainable economic growth," wrote Noda. 



They also show the kindergarten rule threshold is higher with congestion than without it, so crowding of public services slows the crossing.



"We call this threshold the kindergarten rule level of pollution abatement in terms of GDP per capita," wrote Noda. The result gives policymakers a clear income target, not just a slogan about decoupling.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-income-growth-and-sdgs">Income growth and SDGs</h2>



Target 8.4 of the Sustainable Development Goals (<a href="https://www.undp.org/sustainable-development-goals" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">SDGs</a>) asks countries to decouple growth from environmental degradation. 



The authors argue their framework helps explain when that is possible in practice, and how policy levers change the timing.



The UN defines the <a href="https://metadata.un.org/sdg/8.4" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">target</a> as improving resource efficiency and decoupling growth from environmental harm through 2030. The paper’s threshold view fits that mandate with a concrete yardstick.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-why-results-still-matter">Why results still matter</h2>



Earlier <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0959652621009112" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">work</a> in the same research stream focused on developed, innovation-driven economies and showed that zero emissions could be achieved alongside continued growth. 



That study examined whether sustained economic expansion could occur while also maintaining <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/a-net-zero-world-will-require-75-trillion-of-investment-and-1-billion-electric-cars/">zero net pollution emissions</a>.



The new paper shows the same compatibility can hold in aid dependent settings where innovation is not the main growth engine. 



That extension fills a real gap, because many low income countries face tighter fiscal and technological limits.



Build or buy cleaner technology so the threshold falls. Treat tied aid for environmental programs as a growth tool and not just a cost center.



Set tax policy to raise the growth rate of income per person, then sustain it long enough to pass the threshold. Guard against congestion by scaling services with population, so gains are not diluted.



The study is published in <a href="https://www.worldscientific.com/doi/10.1142/S0217590825500304" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">The Singapore Economic Review</a>.



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Net-zero emissions and rising income levels can both be achieved simultaneously

Balancing cleaner air with rising incomes is not a luxury question for developing countries. It is a real-world, and real-life, policy problem that shapes health, jobs, and the future of their cities. A new study lays out when zero emissions can go hand in hand with steady growth, even when governments rely on foreign aid. Zero emissions and economic growth The work comes from Hideo Noda at the Tokyo University of Science (TUS) with coauthor Fengqi Fang, a Ph.D. candidate in Business Administration from the Graduate School...

Earth has never been a stranger to changes in the ice age cycle. 



Around 2.5 million years ago, the planet settled into a rhythm - glaciers advanced, then melted back, over and over. The last big freeze ended about 11,700 years ago, leaving us in a warm, stable period. But how long will this last?



If history followed its usual script, the next ice age would arrive in roughly 10,000 years. That’s what a new study suggests. A team of researchers, including scientists from UC Santa Barbara, has traced the subtle shifts in Earth’s orbit - its wobbles and tilts that are so slight they seem insignificant.



Yet, over thousands of years, these changes have rewritten the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/lessons-from-the-ice-age-how-climate-change-reshapes-plant-life/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">planet’s climate</a> again and again. Their findings, published in Science, reveal a strikingly predictable pattern in Earth’s natural cycles.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-subtle-mechanics-of-a-changing-climate">Subtle mechanics of a changing climate</h2>



The team combed through a million years of climate records, tracking how ice sheets across the Northern Hemisphere expanded and shrank. 



They compared those shifts to the temperature of deep ocean waters, which represent cold storage in terms of Earth’s climate history. Then, they lined it all up with data about variations in Earth’s orbit.



It turns out that every major climate shift has followed a script dictated by these orbital quirks.



“We found a predictable pattern over the past million years for the timing of when Earth's climate changes between glacial ‘ice ages’ and mild, warm periods like today, called interglacials,” explained <a href="https://www.geol.ucsb.edu/people/faculty/lorraine-lisiecki" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Lorraine Lisiecki</a>, a professor in UCSB’s Earth Science Department.



Some orbital changes signaled the end of an ice age, while others set the stage for a new one.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-pattern-hidden-in-plain-sight">A pattern hidden in plain sight</h2>



Scientists have long suspected that Earth’s orbit plays a role in glacial cycles. The idea dates back over a century. But proving it has taken time. Not until the mid-1970s did data begin to confirm the connection. Even then, the details remained murky.



Now, thanks to this new study, those details are much clearer. 



“We were amazed to find such a clear imprint of the different orbital parameters on the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/earths-ice-caps-may-only-exist-because-of-unusual-climate-shifts/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">climate record</a>. It is quite hard to believe that the pattern has not been seen before,” expressed Stephen Barker, a professor at <a href="https://www.cardiff.ac.uk" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Cardiff University</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-is-the-next-ice-age-on-hold">Is the next ice age on hold?</h2>



Looking at the past 900,000 years, the team uncovered a repeating pattern. Left to its own devices, Earth would remain in this warm interglacial period for several more millennia before the next deep freeze began.



“The pattern we found is so reproducible that we were able to make an accurate prediction of when each interglacial period of the past million years or so would occur and how long each would last,” Barker stated. This discovery confirms that climate changes over tens of thousands of years are anything but random.



But there’s a catch. This natural rhythm assumes that nothing interferes.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-humans-have-changed-the-natural-ice-age-cycle">Humans have changed the natural ice age cycle</h2>



“And because we are now living in an interglacial period – called the Holocene – we are also able to provide an initial prediction of when our climate might return to a glacial state,” noted Chronis Tzedakis, a professor at University College London.



However, there is a problem. Human activity has already thrown the system off course.



“But such a transition to a glacial state in 10,000 years’ time is very unlikely to happen because human emissions of carbon dioxide into the atmosphere have already diverted the climate from its natural course, with longer-term impacts into the future,” added Gregor Knorr from the Alfred Wegener Institute.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-looking-ahead">Looking ahead</h2>



The research team isn’t stopping here. They plan to refine their predictions, calibrating past climate changes to create a clearer picture of what <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/timeline-of-life-ice-ages-gave-evolution-a-kick-start/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Earth’s climate</a> should look like over the next 10,000 to 20,000 years. 



Combined with modern climate models, this data could reveal the full extent of human influence on the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/disastrous-climate-changes-of-the-last-ice-age-could-happen-again/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">planet</a>.



“Now we know that climate is largely predictable over these long timescales, we can actually use past changes to inform us about what could happen in the future,” Barker said. “This is something we couldn’t do before with the level of confidence that our new analysis provides.”



Understanding these cycles matters. It’s not just about predicting the next ice age - it’s about understanding how our choices today may reshape the climate for millennia to come.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.science.org/doi/10.1126/science.adp3491" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Science</a>.



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Will Earth go through another ice age?

Earth has never been a stranger to changes in the...

A giant iceberg is drifting from the icy edges of Antarctica, and experts warn that this massive chunk is just one more sign of a changing climate.



As temperatures rise, the formation of these migrating ice islands is happening more frequently. Experts wonder how much bigger these chunks could get and what that means for ocean life.



Dr. Peter Bijl at <a href="https://www.uu.nl/en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Utrecht University</a> leads a team investigating iceberg <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/worlds-largest-iceberg-a23a-breaks-free-from-ocean-cyclone/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">routes</a> to understand how these icy remnants of the past might affect our future.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-why-antarctica-s-icebergs-break-away">Why Antarctica's icebergs break away</h2>



Icebergs are more than just <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/worlds-largest-iceberg-may-crash-into-a-wildlife-sanctuary/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">floating ice</a>. They form when large chunks of glaciers break away from the main ice mass and drift into open water.



Meteorological shifts can accelerate this breakage, leading to towering shapes that can stretch for miles. During warmer periods in Earth’s distant past, these frosty giants also broke free and ventured far beyond the polar circle.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-missing-link-from-the-past">A missing link from the past</h2>



During the late Eocene epoch, Earth was generally warmer than it is today. Scientists suspect that some regions near the present-day Weddell Sea still managed to generate icy blocks that traveled vast distances.



Evidence of these journeys emerged when ancient ice-rafted debris (IRD) was found near South Orkney. IRD refers to rock fragments carried by drifting <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/giant-icebergs-are-not-the-main-threat-to-antarcticas-stability/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ice</a>, which later settles on the ocean floor as the ice melts away.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-new-details-about-iceberg-survival">New details about iceberg survival </h2>



Master’s student Mark Elbertsen used computer simulations to uncover surprising details about iceberg survival during those warmer intervals. He showed that some areas of the Weddell Sea likely remained cold enough for medium-sized bergs to stay intact and reach distant spots.



“The high melt rates under the Eocene warm climate require a minimum initial iceberg mass on the order of 100 Mt,” wrote Elbertsen and colleagues. By meeting that threshold, these drifting blocks could endure the journey across warmer waters and still leave traces in places like South Orkney.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-antarctica-s-iceberg-breakaways">Antarctica’s iceberg breakaways</h2>



<a href="https://climate.nasa.gov/vital-signs/land-ice/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Scientists</a> now wonder if the same conditions are appearing again, but for a different reason. Today, human-driven warming threatens to shift the balance between ice accumulation and melt in Antarctica even faster.



With more calving events on the horizon, the Southern Ocean faces a flood of fresh water that might affect deep ocean circulation. 



Experts also warn that this influx could influence how carbon is stored in the seas, potentially speeding up broader <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/worlds-largest-iceberg-a23a-undergoing-major-erosion/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">climate shifts</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-icebergs-and-ocean-currents">Icebergs and ocean currents</h2>



Ocean currents are essential for distributing heat, nutrients, and oxygen around the globe. If currents weaken or alter their path, marine habitats could be disrupted, impacting both wildlife and human communities.



Researchers continue to piece together how these enormous chunks of ice can not only shape the present but also offer a preview of future conditions. By tracking the flow of fresh water, they hope to reveal the ocean’s response to rising temperatures.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-antarctica-s-icebergs-affect-wildlife">Antarctica's icebergs affect wildlife</h2>



Species like penguins, seals, and whales rely on stable conditions in the Southern Ocean. Large icebergs can disrupt or enhance their feeding grounds, depending on where the ice settles or breaks apart.



An iceberg that runs aground may stir up nutrients and plankton, supporting local fish populations. Some scientists see these drifting masses as both hazards and possible lifelines in regions struggling with warming waters.



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



Ongoing climate models suggest that Antarctic glaciation events will intensify if warming continues at its current pace. This research feeds into broader global models that attempt to predict sea-level rise and possible disruptions to ocean circulation.



Geological records serve as clues to how these processes might unfold. The information gleaned from past iceberg drifts helps researchers anticipate what new threats could emerge as conditions keep changing.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-icebergs-influence-ocean-chemistry">Icebergs influence ocean chemistry</h2>



Iceberg studies across multiple eras highlight the importance of understanding how drifting ice shapes ocean chemistry, wildlife, and global currents. These insights remind us that changes at the poles have consequences that ripple across the planet.



Satellite monitoring has made it easier to track icebergs as they drift across thousands of miles in the Southern Ocean. Mariners rely on up-to-date advisories to avoid collisions and chart safe passages through changing waters.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-navigating-new-waters">Navigating new waters</h2>



Tourism in polar regions has grown steadily, with cruise ships now venturing closer to icy coastlines. This creates fresh opportunities for exploration, but also raises concerns about accidents in remote areas and potential harm to fragile ecosystems.



In light of these realities, scientists emphasize that understanding iceberg <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/sea-ice-levels-drop-to-record-lows-on-both-poles-as-scientists-issue-warning/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">behavior</a> is more than an academic exercise. It holds tangible value for industries, communities, and marine life that depend on stable waters.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-managing-iceberg-risks">Managing iceberg risks</h2>



Experts believe that international cooperation is crucial to handle any potential iceberg-related hazards. By sharing data and coordinated research efforts, nations can prepare for sudden shifts in these floating giants’ paths and mitigate possible risks.



Gaining new insights from ancient ice can also spark solutions for a future that may see even larger calving events. Mapping out those possibilities could support better planning for coastal communities worldwide.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://cp.copernicus.org/articles/21/441/2025/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Climate of the Past</a>.



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Massive iceberg that broke away from Antarctica sparks concerns

A giant iceberg is drifting from the icy edges of...

Methane is a potent greenhouse gas that plays a significant role in global warming, yet its persistent emissions often go unnoticed.



As we strive for a more sustainable and climate-friendly future, understanding the sources of methane emissions is crucial to predicting the ability of the Earth's atmosphere to trap heat from the sun.



A recent study has identified the top 10 regions worldwide where methane is consistently released, whether from natural wetlands or human-driven activities like oil extraction and the burning of coal.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-investigating-global-methane-emissions">Investigating global methane emissions</h2>



Researchers analyzed data from hundreds of potential sources of methane. They relied on data from the <a href="https://www.esa.int/Applications/Observing_the_Earth/Copernicus/Sentinel-5P" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Copernicus Sentinel-5P mission</a>, which made it possible to estimate emissions at 217 potential locations.



Rather than focusing on "super-emitters" - typically oil and gas operations, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/crucial-rare-earth-elements-discovered-coal-mines-united-states/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">coal mines</a>, or poorly managed landfills that release large amounts of methane unpredictably - the study examined sources that emit methane consistently over time.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-detecting-persistent-methane-sources">Detecting persistent methane sources</h2>



The research was guided by a new methane concentration dataset and an algorithm developed at the <a href="https://www.uni-bremen.de/en/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Bremen</a>. 



The university was involved as part of the <a href="https://climate.esa.int/en/projects/ghgs/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ESA Climate Change Initiative Greenhouse Gas Project</a> and the ESA Earth System Science Hub projects, Methane CAMP and SMART-CH4.



Claus Zehner, ESA's Mission Manager for Sentinel-5P, highlighted the unique capabilities of the mission.



"Sentinel-5P is currently the only satellite that provides the feasibility to detect <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/microbes-have-emerged-as-major-source-of-methane-emissions/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">methane sources</a> on a global scale and on a daily basis," noted Zehner.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-spotting-the-persistent-emitters">Spotting the persistent emitters</h2>



The experts analyzed methane concentrations at different locations between 2018 and 2021.



Any location where methane levels were consistently elevated, when compared to surrounding areas, was identified as a potentially persistent emitter.



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-full"><a href="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/global-methane_Potential_persistent_methane_source_regions_2018_2021_ESA_1m.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><img src="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/global-methane_Potential_persistent_methane_source_regions_2018_2021_ESA_1s.webp" alt="The data used in this map of the global atmospheric methane average in 2021. Areas in dark red have the highest methane concentrations of around 1900 parts per billion, while blue areas show lower methane concentration in the atmosphere of around 1700 parts per billion. Credit: ESA" class="wp-image-1960962"/></a><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">The data used in this map of the global atmospheric methane average in 2021. Areas in dark red have the highest methane concentrations of around 1900 parts per billion, while blue areas show lower methane concentration in the atmosphere of around 1700 parts per billion. Credit: ESA</figcaption></figure>



"The aim was not to identify specific events, where methane is only released for a short period. Instead, the aim was to identify sources that emit almost continuously during the four years that were analyzed," said Michael Buchwitz, senior scientist at the University of Bremen.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-wetlands-and-natural-methane-emissions">Wetlands and natural methane emissions</h2>



The analysis identified the Sudd wetland in South Sudan as the world's largest persistent emitter of methane, at 4.5 million tons per year. 



The Iberá wetland in Argentina is also a major emitter, with an annual production of 3.3 million tons of methane.



Microbes found in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/world-wetlands-day-the-hidden-potential-of-tidal-landscapes/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">wetland</a> soils and waters are often anaerobic and release significant quantities of methane as a result of their metabolic reactions. 



Although this is a natural source of methane gas, it has meaningful consequences for global warming.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-human-footprint-from-oil-gas-and-coal">Human footprint from oil, gas, and coal</h2>



Anthropogenic activities were the cause of the remaining eight largest persistent sources of this heat-trapping gas. 



The biggest anthropogenic emissions were from the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/britain-approves-controversial-oil-and-gas-field-in-the-north-sea/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">oil and gas fields</a> on the west coast of Turkmenistan, where an estimated 3.5 million tons of methane are produced each year.



Coal fields in China and the Kuznetsk Basin, in Russia, along with oil and gas fields in the U.S. (Permian and Delaware Basins) made up most of the remaining top 10 global sites where methane is emitted slowly and persistently, leaving a considerable footprint.



In addition, Dakha in Bangladesh and Liaoning in China produced significant amounts methane through other anthropogenic activities, including wastewater management, digestive gas from ruminant animals such as cattle, sheep and goats, as well as from manure and rice&nbsp;fields.



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



Methane is the second most important greenhouse gas after <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/global-carbon-dioxide-emissions-hit-a-record-high-in-2023/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">carbon dioxide</a>, as it contributes significantly to global warming.



Its concentrations have skyrocketed to almost three times the levels recorded in 1850, making high-emitting and persistent sources a serious concern for our planet.



Given that this gas has a greater warming effect than carbon dioxide, cutting methane emissions would be a crucial strategy in mitigating the effects of global warming.



It's our task to tackle these persistent sources head-on, in order to reduce the level of methane emissions entering the atmosphere on a daily basis. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-addressing-the-methane-challenge">Addressing the methane challenge</h2>



Identifying the locations of the world’s most important persistent methane emitters is just the first step. Managing or reducing these emissions will require targeted strategies.



Unlike carbon dioxide, methane remains in the atmosphere for a short period of time only, but its warming potential is significantly greater. This potentially makes immediate reductions in emission highly effective in slowing climate change.



Governments and industries are increasingly prioritizing methane mitigation. The <a href="https://www.globalmethanepledge.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Global Methane Pledge</a>, launched at COP26, aims to cut emissions by at least 30% by 2030, with over 150 countries committed to action.



Technologies such as satellite monitoring, leak detection in oil and gas operations, and improved waste management practices are crucial in reducing emissions of methane that arise from human activities.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-managing-wetlands-and-methane-emissions">Managing wetlands and methane emissions</h2>



For natural sources like wetlands, mitigation is more complex. While these ecosystems are vital for biodiversity and carbon storage, researchers are exploring ways to balance their natural methane output with conservation efforts.



Strategies such as wetland restoration, water management techniques, and microbial interventions could help optimize emissions without harming these critical environments.



With growing awareness and improved detection capabilities, policymakers and scientists now have the data needed to drive targeted action.



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<a href="https://www.esa.int/Applications/Observing_the_Earth/Copernicus/Sentinel-5P/Top_10_persistent_methane_sources" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Featured image</a>: A study by the University of Bremen has identified 217 potential persistent methane source regions, estimated their emissions and created a global map of their distribution. The data was from the Copernicus Sentinel-5P satellite, taken over the four-year period 2018–2021. It identifies some of the major regions that emit methane on a persistent, continuous basis. Credit: ESA



The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://acp.copernicus.org/articles/24/10441/2024/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Atmosphere, Chemistry and Physics</a>.



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Top 10 global methane emissions hotspots spotted by satellites

Methane is a potent greenhouse gas that plays a significant...

The world's appetite for seafood is growing, and the industry is racing to keep up. 



A new study suggests that farming seafood from the ocean - known as mariculture - could be expanded to feed more people while reducing harm to marine biodiversity at the same time. However, success depends on careful planning.



The researchers found that the locations and ways in which mariculture is expanded will determine whether it helps or harms the environment.



The findings, published in the journal Nature Ecology &amp; Evolution, highlight both the risks and opportunities of growing this industry.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-science-of-sustainable-mariculture">The science of sustainable mariculture</h2>



The study was led by Deqiang Ma, who conducted the research as a postdoctoral scholar at the <a href="https://umich.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Michigan</a>.



“We can achieve this sustainable mariculture development,” said Ma. "With strategic planning, we can achieve the goal of conserving <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/good-news-ocean-oxygen-loss-may-ultimately-reverse/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">marine species</a> while meeting the global demand for the expansion of mariculture.”



<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/mariculture-is-highly-sustainable-and-climate-friendly/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Mariculture</a> is a type of aquaculture focused on farming saltwater seafood, such as fish and shellfish. In 2020, it contributed about 20% of the seafood consumed globally, providing a critical source of protein for billions of people.



As the demand for seafood production increases, mariculture is expanding rapidly. To understand its impact, Ma and an international team of researchers developed a model to analyze the potential effects of mariculture growth on over 20,000 marine species.



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



The team’s model created a baseline for mariculture’s current impact and simulated how it could change by 2050 under different scenarios. 



The researchers also factored in two climate change models - RCP 4.5 and RCP 8.5 - which assume varying levels of warming and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/greenhouse-gas-emissions-reach-another-all-time-high/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">greenhouse gas emissions</a>.



In the best-case scenario, where new farms are built in areas with the least environmental impact, seafood production could soar.



“Bivalve production could increase by 2.36-fold and finfish could increase by 1.82-fold compared to current production - projections of what is needed to meet global demand - but the global mariculture impacts would decrease by up to 30.5% under the best-case scenario,” Ma said.



However, the worst-case scenario painted a starkly different picture. If new farms are built in the most ecologically sensitive areas, the damage to marine biodiversity could be more than four times worse than if farms were placed randomly.



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



This study highlights the need for thoughtful planning, said senior study author Neil Carter, an associate professor at the University of Michigan.



“It is critically important to leverage the growing insights across disciplines, whether it’s <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/clear-and-dynamic-visuals-are-important-when-presenting-climate-change-science/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">climate change science</a> or economics or marine production,” Carter said. “All these different facets had to come together from other sources in order to make these forecasts.”



The research team included experts from the University of Washington, the University of Freiburg in Germany, Hokkaido University in Japan, and the University of California, Santa Barbara. 



Their collaborative effort highlights the complexity of mariculture expansion and the need for coordinated decision-making.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-expanding-seafood-farming">Expanding seafood farming</h2>



Large-scale studies like this come with challenges, noted co-author Benjamin Halpern, a professor at UCSB. “But I’ve done this kind of work a lot in my career, and the payoffs can be enormous."



“The cross-disciplinary nature of the questions that can be addressed and the ability to look at them for every patch of ocean in the world makes the research much more relevant and impactful to society and the scientific community.”



The researchers emphasize that this study is just the beginning. More data and refined models will be needed to fine-tune sustainable mariculture strategies for the future.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-best-approach-varies-by-region">Best approach varies by region</h2>



One key takeaway is that there is no universal solution. The best approach varies by region. What works in the South Pacific may not be ideal for coastal Europe.



Additionally, even the best-case scenario has trade-offs. In all scenarios examined, mariculture expansion negatively impacted some <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/marine-mammals-in-the-us-are-highly-vulnerable-to-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">marine mammals</a>, such as whales, seals, and sea lions. 



Understanding these trade-offs is essential for policymakers who must balance food security with conservation goals.



“With these insights, we can see that it’s not a foregone conclusion that the expansion of an industry is always going to have a proportionally negative impact on the environment,” Carter said. 



“So the next part of this is getting policymakers and communities to interact with each other to figure out how we can actually implement some of these ideas to reduce those impacts and to prioritize marine biodiversity.”



The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41559-025-02650-6" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature Ecology &amp; Evolution</a>.



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Boosting seafood production while protecting biodiversity

The world's appetite for seafood is growing, and the industry...

Geothermal,Power,Plant.,From,Above

Efficient energy sources are pivotal to our thriving modern society, and the continuous quest for "greener" energy alternatives has focused attention on geothermal energy.



Accessing this vast reservoir of natural heat from Earth has always been limited by one principle of real estate: location, location, location.



Conventional geothermal power plants rely on the presence of hot, porous rocks and abundant subsurface fluids.



This requirement has limited the application of geothermal systems to areas of recent volcanic activity, like Japan, Kenya, Iceland, and the western United States, among others.



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



Geothermal energy taps into Earth’s natural heat to generate electricity and warm buildings. Deep beneath the surface, the planet’s core stays scorching hot, heating underground reservoirs of water. 



When we drill into these hot spots, we can release steam or hot water to spin turbines and produce power. 



Some places, like Iceland and parts of the U.S., sit on top of prime geothermal real estate, making it easier to harness this <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/tapping-into-the-natural-power-of-plants-for-renewable-energy/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">renewable energy</a>. 



Unlike fossil fuels, geothermal doesn’t rely on the weather, so it provides a steady, reliable source of power year-round.



This technology cuts down on energy bills and reduces reliance on gas or coal. Plus, geothermal plants have a much smaller carbon footprint compared to traditional power sources.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-enhanced-geothermal-systems-egs">Enhanced geothermal systems (EGS)</h2>



But things might be changing. For the past half-century, adapted techniques, originally designed for oilfields and now utilized for enhanced geothermal systems (EGS), have raised the prospects of extracting natural heat from a wider geographical range.



"There is a lot of excitement about enhanced geothermal energy," noted Roland Horne, a professor of energy science and engineering from the <a href="https://sustainability.stanford.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Stanford Doerr School of Sustainability</a>. 



He was at the forefront of bringing together engineers, scientists, and managers from 28 countries at the Stanford Geothermal Workshop, and encouraging the exchange of innovative thinking and insights from ongoing geothermal projects worldwide.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-historical-evolution-of-geothermal-energy">Historical evolution of geothermal energy</h2>



Geothermal power has historically been an integral component of the evolution of society. 



Subterranean heat was used by the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-ancient-romans-made-such-incredibly-durable-concrete-is-no-longer-a-mystery/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ancient Romans</a> to heat their structures thousands of years ago, and the world's first geothermal power plant was started in Italy, more than a century ago.



Geothermal power, in contemporary times, accounts for up to 45% of the electricity supply in certain nations, such as Kenya. 



But it accounts for less than half of 1% of the global energy production. 



The rise of EGS, though, could potentially redefine the role of geothermal sources in fulfilling our <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/clean-energy-biodiversity-wildlife-habitats-delicate-balancing-act/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">energy</a> needs.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-rapid-drilling-lower-costs">Rapid drilling, lower costs</h2>



Among the most promising developments in EGS are techniques borrowed from the shale gas boom in the early 2000s. 



These include horizontal drilling and hydraulic fracturing, or "<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/earthquakes-linked-to-nearby-oil-extraction-fracking-sites/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">fracking</a>," which involve pumping fluids at high pressures into wells dug thousands of feet underground into rock formations.



The pressure opens up existing fractures in the rock or forms new ones, facilitating the flow of fluids, including hot water, to the surface.



Moreover, drilling multiple wells from a single pad enhances efficiency and keeps costs in check. 



Synthetic diamond drill bits that can chew through hard rock faster are also crucial. 



"Drilling faster makes an enormous difference to the whole economics of EGS,” noted Horne.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-cost-competitive-geothermal-energy-systems">Cost-competitive geothermal energy systems</h2>



Recent studies by a group of authors, including Ph.D. candidate Mohammad Aljubran, indicate that by 2027, enhanced geothermal system costs may be comparable with the average cost of electricity throughout the United States, which is around $80 per megawatt-hour.



For instance, in California, which currently produces about 5% of its <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/harvesting-electricity-with-nature-inspired-techniques/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">electricity</a> from geothermal energy, EGS could potentially increase its geothermal capacity tenfold, to 40 gigawatts, by 2045.



This significant increase could replace <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/fossil-carbon-emissions-hit-a-record-high-in-2023/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">fossil fuels</a> for baseload power and add stability to a decarbonized power grid, complementing intermittent renewables like wind and solar. 



"With EGS, we can meet the load," confirmed Horne.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-balancing-the-seismic-risks">Balancing the seismic risks</h2>



Despite the immense potential, EGS is not without its challenges. 



For example, fracking, a key component of EGS, is known to trigger earthquakes, thus posing a serious risk.



Mitigation tactics include avoiding seismic-prone regions for drilling, and implementing a traffic-light protocol - a monitoring system that dictates the pace of drilling based on seismic activities.



A recent development also involves creating many smaller fractures during drilling, instead of just one or a few massive fractures, to reduce the risk and size of induced seismicity.



“A drip-drip-drip instead of a fire hose approach can significantly reduce the risk and size of induced seismicity,” shared Horne.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-egs-could-power-the-future">EGS could power the future</h2>



The scientific community is optimistic about EGS's potential. 



Horne, along with his colleagues, hopes that the new study promotes further research and development of EGS as a sustainable and reliable energy source.



"EGS could be a game changer for green energy production not just in California but across the U.S. and worldwide. Safely harnessing Earth’s internal heat could substantially contribute to powering our future," he concluded.



The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s44359-024-00019-9" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature Reviews Clean Technology</a>.



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Geothermal energy is cheap and clean and having its 'moment'

Efficient energy sources are pivotal to our thriving modern society,...

In the heart of Los Angeles, trees are absorbing considerably more carbon dioxide than we ever imagined, and effectively balancing a large chunk of fossil fuel emissions during the warmer seasons, when the trees are at their most productive.



This unexpected carbon uptake highlights the crucial role that urban greenery plays in mitigating the effects of pollution. This finding challenges previous assumptions about the impact of vegetation in cities.



Beyond offering shade and aesthetic value, these trees act as silent workhorses in the city’s climate resilience strategy, capturing emissions at a scale that warrants closer examination.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-silent-heroes-of-los-angeles">The silent heroes of Los Angeles</h2>



This revelation comes courtesy of a new study, a collaboration between researchers from Public Exchange and the <a href="https://dornsife.usc.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">USC Dornsife </a>College of Letters, Arts and Sciences.



The research indicates that LA's trees generate impressive <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/earth-greening-affects-carbon-uptake-by-plants/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">carbon uptake</a> rates, absorbing up to 60% of daytime CO₂ emissions from fossil fuel combustion in spring and summer, and about 30% annually.



To monitor the CO2 levels, the researchers launched the Carbon Census array, employing 12 high-resolution sensors across a 15x6-mile section of Los Angeles.



“You can think of emissions like passengers on a train. As the wind moves pollution through the city, some gets picked up and some gets dropped off. These sensors let us see that process in real time,” explained study co-author Will Berelson.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-new-approach-to-measuring-co₂">A new approach to measuring CO₂</h2>



Traditional models estimate CO₂ levels based on fuel sales, traffic data, or the amount of CO₂ detected at a particular sensor. For this new study, the experts took a direct measurement approach.



Running from July 2021 to December 2022, the study provided a more precise and localized estimation of emissions, and offered a clearer picture of urban carbon flux.



To distinguish CO₂ generated by <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/air-pollution-from-fossil-fuels-kills-5-million-people-each-year/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">fossil fuels</a> from CO₂ emitted by living organisms, the researchers used carbon monoxide (CO) as a tracer. Since CO is co-emitted with CO₂ during fossil fuel combustion and behaves similarly in the atmosphere, it allowed scientists to differentiate human-driven emissions from those generated by natural sources.



While the study focused on a section of Los Angeles, its findings have broader implications. Similar methods could be applied to cities worldwide, and could refine our understanding of urban <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/carbon-footprints-of-the-wealthy-are-vastly-underestimated/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">carbon footprints</a> and inform more effective climate policies.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-global-lesson-from-la-s-trees">A global lesson from LA’s trees</h2>



One startling revelation from the study was that trees absorb most CO₂ during the summer, despite the fact that this is the driest season in Los Angeles.



This is likely due to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/sustainable-irrigation-could-feed-feed-1-4-billion-more-people/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">irrigation</a>, groundwater access from leaky pipes, and resilient tree species that stay green and active in dry conditions.



Nevertheless, city trees cannot solve the emissions problem alone. Carbon dioxide levels still peak during rush hour, emphasizing that while greenery helps, it can't offset all pollution from cars, buildings, and industry on its own.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-urban-trees-initiative">The Urban Trees Initiative </h2>



This study is a key driver of the USC Urban Trees Initiative - a collaboration between USC, the city of Los Angeles, and community organizations focused on expanding urban greenery in underserved neighborhoods.



The research is critical for our fight against climate change. It provides a blueprint for how we can effectively track and reduce emissions more effectively. “Nature is helping us, but we can't rely on it to do all the work,” said Berelson.



Ultimately, the findings will help Los Angeles and other cities worldwide to meet their ambitious targets of becoming carbon-neutral.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-next-steps-for-urban-greenery">The next steps for urban greenery</h2>



USC has expanded its sensor network in the quest to monitor CO2 levels in more areas of Los Angeles. This will help define baseline values of emissions and identify where vegetation is making the most impact and where more <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/new-york-city-greenery-absorbs-vast-amounts-of-carbon/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">greenery</a> is needed.



Ultimately, reducing fossil fuel consumption is the most crucial step in combating climate change. However, as we work toward that goal, let’s take a moment to appreciate city trees - they are working much harder than you think. 



The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://pubs.acs.org/doi/10.1021/acs.est.4c11392" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Environmental Sciencce &amp; Technology</a>.



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City trees absorb much more carbon than expected

In the heart of Los Angeles, trees are absorbing considerably...

The Arctic’s frozen expanse is home to one of nature’s most awe-inspiring creatures - the polar bear. For thousands of years, these formidable hunters have roamed the ice, perfectly adapted to their brutal environment.



But today? Survival has never been harder for polar bears. Climate change, melting ice, and human activity threaten their very <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/polar-bears-are-suffering-from-an-energy-deficit-due-to-lack-of-food-access/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">existence</a>.



Each year on February 27, International Polar Bear Day serves as a wake-up call. Founded by Polar Bears International in 2011, this day isn’t just about admiration - it’s about action. 



The timing of Polar Bear Day isn’t random. It aligns with a crucial period when mother bears and their newborn cubs rest in dens, preparing for their first steps into a world that’s changing too fast.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-harsh-start-to-life">A harsh start to life</h2>



Deep beneath the Arctic snow, polar bear mothers curl around their newborn cubs, shielding them from the cold. Cubs arrive helpless - blind, tiny, barely weighing a pound. Their survival depends entirely on the warmth and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ice-doesnt-stick-to-polar-bear-fur-but-why/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">safety</a> of the den.



Spring brings their first test. Emerging into the Arctic, they face an environment shifting under their paws. 



Rising temperatures, erratic weather, and encroaching human activity make survival even more precarious. Many of the safe denning sites of the past no longer exist.



“Keeping moms and cubs safe while also addressing climate change is a critical part of our work on behalf of polar bears - and your support can make a real difference,” noted officials from <a href="https://polarbearsinternational.org" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Polar Bears International</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-protecting-polar-bear-habitats">Protecting polar bear habitats</h2>



Scientists and conservationists race to safeguard these bears, but challenges mount. Research is vital - tracking den locations, monitoring bear movements, and identifying emerging threats. 



One of the most pressing concerns is industrial expansion. Oil and gas operations, road construction, and increased shipping traffic disrupt denning mothers.



 The consequences may be devastating. If disturbed too soon, a mother may abandon her cubs - leaving them to perish.



And here’s the shocking part: current industry surveys fail to detect more than half of active dens. That means countless mothers and cubs remain at risk.



New technology offers hope. Researchers are testing advanced thermal imaging and AI-driven mapping to pinpoint hidden dens with greater accuracy. If successful, these innovations could protect critical habitats before it’s too late.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-why-international-polar-bear-day-matters">Why International Polar Bear Day matters</h2>



International Polar Bear Day isn’t just another “awareness day.” It’s a demand for change. Today is about supporting research, pushing for stronger environmental policies, and educating people about the harsh reality of climate change.



Polar <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/polar-bears-are-struggling-to-survive-longer-summers/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">bears</a> have walked a thin line between survival and extinction before. Scientists believe they evolved around 150,000 years ago, perfectly adapted to their icy world. But humans nearly wiped them out.



For millennia, Indigenous Arctic communities coexisted with polar bears, hunting them sustainably. That balance was shattered in the 1700s when European, Russian, and North American hunters arrived. Unchecked slaughter pushed the species toward collapse.



By the mid-20th century, another enemy emerged: fossil fuel-driven climate change. Despite repeated warnings, industrial expansion continued unchecked. The ice melted, and the Arctic landscape transformed.



In 1973, a turning point arrived - the United States, Denmark, Norway, and the former USSR signed the International Agreement on the Conservation of Polar Bears. The treaty banned commercial hunting and marked the first step toward protecting these <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/polar-bear-conservation-leaps-forward-with-new-tracking-technology/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">animals</a>. But was it enough?



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-science-tells-us-now">What science tells us now</h2>



Decades of research have deepened our understanding of polar bears. Long-term studies in Alaska and Svalbard reveal alarming trends - rising cub mortality rates, shrinking sea ice, and increased human-wildlife conflict.



One study looked at how mothers respond to disturbances. The results? Even minor disruptions can cause a denning mother to flee, dooming her cubs. 



Another investigation exposed the failure of oil industry surveys to locate active dens, raising concerns about drilling projects in the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-part-of-a-bigger-fight">Part of a bigger fight </h2>



There’s still time to make a difference. If we reduce carbon emissions now, sea ice can regenerate, giving polar bears a chance to recover and thrive in their natural habitat.



Polar bears aren’t just symbols of the Arctic. They are keystone predators, essential to the region’s delicate balance. 



Their disappearance would ripple through the ecosystem, impacting other species and Indigenous communities who have lived alongside them for generations.



But let’s be real - this isn’t just an Arctic problem. The loss of sea ice accelerates global warming. Less ice means less sunlight reflected away from Earth, which raises temperatures worldwide. Rising seas threaten coastal cities.



Unstable weather patterns disrupt food supplies. Protecting polar bears is part of a much bigger fight.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-take-action-on-polar-bear-day">Take action on Polar Bear Day</h2>



International Polar Bear Day isn’t about feeling helpless - it’s about action. Raising awareness is a powerful first step. Conversations spark change, and education fuels advocacy. Sharing information keeps the urgency alive.



Supporting conservation efforts strengthens long-term solutions. Donations help fund critical research and protection programs. Every contribution - big or small - plays a role in safeguarding these animals.



Reducing carbon footprints is another way to make a difference. Adjusting thermostats, choosing energy-efficient appliances, and driving less all contribute to lower emissions.



Advocacy remains crucial. Understanding environmental policies and demanding accountability from leaders can help to ensure that conservation stays a priority. Public support influences stronger legislation to protect Arctic wildlife and combat climate change.



The Arctic is changing fast, but there’s still hope. Through science, conservation, and global collaboration, we can make a difference. 



For millennia, polar bears have thrived in one of the harshest environments on Earth, adapting to extreme conditions. But this challenge is beyond adaptation - they can’t face it alone. Their future hinges on the choices we make now.



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International Polar Bear Day: Keeping moms and cubs safe

The Arctic’s frozen expanse is home to one of nature’s...

Microscopic,View.,Brightly,Colored,,These,Microscopic,Algae,Can,Survive,In

For thousands of years, algae have lived on the surface of the ice, blooming as the snow recedes. These tiny organisms seem harmless, almost invisible, yet their presence plays a surprising role in shaping the fate of the Greenland Ice Sheet. 



As the world warms, these algae may colonize larger areas, speeding up ice loss and altering the delicate balance of the Arctic.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-role-of-algae-in-ice-melt">Role of algae in ice melt</h2>



Algae on the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/greenland-ice-sheet-jakobshavn-glacier-seen-melting-in-real-time-from-earth-orbit/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Greenland Ice Sheet</a> contain brown pigments. When sunlight strikes the surface, bright ice reflects much of it back into space, keeping the ice cold. 



But when the ice is dark due to algal growth, it absorbs more heat and melts at a faster rate.



This process has been recognized for some time, but researchers believed that the algae’s spread was limited by the lack of nutrients in the harsh, frozen environment. 



The ice desert was thought to be too barren to sustain widespread growth. That assumption has now been turned on its head.



New findings, published in Nature Communications, suggest that these algae require very few nutrients to survive. 



More significantly, they can store and conserve energy, which allows them to spread more extensively than <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/greenland-ice-sheet-discovery-transforms-sea-level-predictions/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">previous expectations</a>.



If this proves correct, ice darkening could happen on a much larger scale in future, thus accelerating the melting of Greenland’s ice.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-understanding-ice-algae">Understanding ice algae</h2>



Laura Halbach, who recently earned her Ph.D. at <a href="https://international.au.dk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Aarhus University</a>, has played a crucial role in uncovering this surprising phenomenon. 



Now a postdoctoral researcher at the <a href="https://www.mpg.de/en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Max Planck Institute</a> in Bremen, she continues her work studying Arctic ecosystems and their hidden complexities.



"My main goal with the trip to Greenland was to understand the mechanisms of the algae bloom formations," Halbach explained. 



"With new methods, I was able, as the first researcher ever, to measure the activity of single algae cells from the Greenland Ice Sheet. This led to the discovery of their ability to live off very few nutrients and to store up energy."



These findings reshape what scientists thought they knew about microbial life on ice. What was once considered a largely lifeless landscape now appears to host a thriving and resilient ecosystem.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-powerful-world-of-ice-algae">Powerful world of ice algae</h2>



Ice algae are single-celled organisms with an elongated, oval shape. 



They appear brownish due to their pigments and can be found not just in Greenland but also in high-altitude and high-latitude ice regions worldwide. 



The Alps, the Himalayas, and Alaskan glaciers all host similar algal species.



Like plants, these <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/arctic-microalgae-show-photosynthesis-is-possible-in-near-darkness/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">algae perform photosynthesis</a>, producing oxygen and organic molecules. They rely on sunlight, water, and carbon dioxide, along with small amounts of essential nutrients like phosphorus, nitrogen, and carbon.



During spring and summer, they bloom, forming dark patches across the ice. The larger the bloom, the more heat the ice absorbs, creating a cycle where melting fuels even more algal growth. 



Understanding how they function is key to predicting their long-term impact on the Arctic.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-frozen-desert-full-of-life">A frozen desert full of life</h2>



That perception that ice sheets are devoid of life started to change in 2020 when researchers from Aarhus University and GFZ Helmholtz Center for Geosciences in Germany began their expeditions into the Arctic.



They found that the expanses of frozen water teemed with microscopic life, including algae, bacteria, fungi, and even viruses, all coexisting and forming a complex and active ecosystem.



But this discovery came with challenges. When scientists collected ice samples, they found not just algae but entire microbial communities. 



Studying algae in isolation became nearly impossible. To understand their particular role in the ecosystem, researchers needed a new approach.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-new-way-to-study-algae">A new way to study algae</h2>



Laura Halbach wanted to pinpoint exactly how ice algae functioned in their environment. But isolating them from their microbial neighbors was difficult. 



Traditional methods involved scraping darkened ice and placing samples into petri dishes, where entire ecosystems would be present.



"If you melt a piece of the surface ice, you see these dark-pigmented algae. But there are many organisms in the sample, including snow-algae, other eukaryotic algae, bacteria, and fungi," she explained.



To solve this, Halbach and her team introduced marked nutrients into the ecosystem. These nutrients contained isotopic traces detectable with a powerful machine called a mass spectrometer.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-nutrient-flow-in-ice-algae">Nutrient Flow in ice algae</h2>



"You could say that we kind of labeled the food we gave them. This enabled us to see who ate what. Combined with a machine called SIMS, which is extremely precise, we were able to measure the nutrient uptake of single cells," says Halbach.



The results were striking. The algae efficiently absorbed the small amounts of nutrients available, proving far more resourceful than scientists had expected. 



"They are very efficient in taking up the limited nutrients on the ice. Furthermore, we discovered that they have the capability of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/soil-nutrient-loss-due-to-heavy-rainfall-threatens-agriculture/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">storing phosphorus</a>, which is crucial for their metabolism."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-where-does-phosphorus-come-from">Where does phosphorus come from?</h2>



Phosphorus is rare on the ice sheet, which raises questions about where the algae acquire it.



Some researchers suggest that it originates from local rock formations that are rich in phosphorus-bearing minerals. 



As erosion grinds these rocks into dust, the wind scatters the nutrients across the ice, making them available to the algae.



Because the algae can store phosphorus, they are not entirely dependent on immediate nutrient availability. This could allow them to spread into new areas as more ice becomes exposed each year.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-expanding-ice-algae-colonization">Expanding ice algae colonization</h2>



With climate change causing the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/greenlands-melting-icebergs-may-not-be-threat-to-ocean-currents-amoc/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Greenland Ice Sheet</a> to melt earlier each year, more ice is being exposed to the Sun. 



Areas that once remained buried under thick layers of snow are now vulnerable to colonization by algae.



"New ice is being exposed on Greenland every year because the snow melts earlier and earlier. There used to be a thick snow cover all year round, but now large new areas of ice are being exposed to the Sun," Halbach noted.



"This opens up these areas for the algae to colonize, and as they can live on very limited amounts of nutrients, it might happen sooner than later."



This shift could significantly alter how scientists predict ice loss in the Arctic. If algae spread to newly exposed ice, they will darken even more of the surface, accelerating the melting process beyond previous estimates.



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



Laura Halbach’s research offers crucial insights into the role of algae in ice loss. Currently, most climate models do not account for microbial life in their calculations. 



This gap means that predictions about Greenland’s ice loss - and its effects on global sea levels - may be underestimating the true impact.



If algae colonization continues to expand, its contribution to ice melt will need to be factored into climate projections. 



The work of Halbach and her team could help refine these models, leading to more accurate forecasts for the Arctic’s future.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41467-025-56664-6" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature Communications</a>.



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Algae that thrives on ice plays an unexpected role in glacier melting

For thousands of years, algae have lived on the surface...

Tiny plastic particles in coastal waters may be linked to higher rates of disabilities that affect thinking, movement, and self-care, according to a preliminary investigation.&nbsp;



This research examined regions with elevated levels of marine microplastics and observed a greater prevalence of functional limitations in local populations, though the study does not prove a direct cause-and-effect relationship.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ocean-plastics-and-coastal-communities">Ocean plastics and coastal communities</h2>



The researchers focused on microscopic fragments of plastic less than 5 millimeters across - referred to as <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/microplastics-are-infiltrating-the-human-body-even-the-brain/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">microplastics</a> - which can form when plastic trash breaks apart or can originate in personal care products, food wrappers, and discarded fishing materials.&nbsp;



The experts assessed whether people living in coastal counties with higher levels of these particles in nearby waters also had a higher prevalence of impairments in memory, thinking, mobility, and day-to-day self-care tasks.



“The environment can play a crucial role in our health, and factors such as pollution may impact a person’s risk of developing <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/predicting-the-rate-of-cognitive-decline-in-alzheimers-patients/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cognitive decline</a> and other neurological disabilities,” said study co-author Dr. Sarju Ganatra of the <a href="https://www.lahey.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Lahey Hospital and Medical Center</a>.



“Our study found that in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/marine-protected-areas-improve-well-being-in-coastal-communities/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">coastal communities</a> with higher levels of microplastics in the water, there were higher rates of disabilities that can affect a person’s life in many ways through thinking and memory, movement and their ability to take care of themselves and live independently.”



However, the authors caution that their findings only suggest an association, not necessarily causation.



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



In total, 218 coastal counties across 22 U.S. states were included. The scientists gathered information on marine microplastic concentrations in ocean surface waters adjacent to these counties, sorting the locations into four main categories: low, medium, high, and very high.&nbsp;



The lower bound included zero to 0.005 pieces of plastic per cubic meter, and the higher tiers reached up to or beyond 10 pieces per cubic meter - sometimes more than a thousand pieces per cubic meter on average.



Next, the team examined data on disabilities among residents in four functional domains: memory/thinking, mobility, self-care, and independent living.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ocean-plastics-and-disability-risks">Ocean plastics and disability risks </h2>



Self-care disabilities might mean difficulties bathing or dressing, while independent living disabilities could involve challenges such as shopping, managing money, or using transportation.



The researchers found that in counties with the highest levels of ocean plastics, the average prevalence of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/social-interactions-have-a-surprising-influence-on-memory-in-great-apes/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">memory</a> and thinking disabilities was 15.2%, compared to 13.9% in counties with the lowest levels. Similarly, mobility disabilities in high-level counties averaged 14.1%, whereas low-level counties came in at 12.3%. 



For self-care disabilities, the average was 4.2% in high-exposure counties compared to 3.6% at the low end. Independent living impairments stood at 8.5% in the highest category versus 7.7% in the lowest group.



After accounting for variables such as heart disease, stroke, depression, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/understanding-how-air-pollution-forms-may-help-us-prevent-it/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">air pollution</a>, and differences in wealth, they calculated that areas with very high microplastic concentrations showed a 9% higher rate of memory and thinking disability, 6% higher mobility disability, 16% higher self-care disability, and 8% higher independent living disability compared to the lowest-exposure counties.



“These findings provide insights into how marine microplastics might affect <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/brain-health-may-literally-be-a-state-of-mind/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">brain health</a>,” Ganatra said. “More research is needed to explore this connection further and examine the overall public health implications of microplastic pollution.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-complex-distribution-of-ocean-plastics">Complex distribution of ocean plastics</h2>



According to the investigators, ocean circulation patterns, local waste management practices, industrial activities, and population density all influence how plastic accumulates.&nbsp;



“The amount of plastic in different areas can vary due to ocean currents, which can carry and concentrate plastic in certain regions. Other factors, like population density, local waste management, and industrial activities, may also play a role,” Ganatra explained.



The reasons are complex and likely involve multiple environmental- and human-related factors working together, but this relationship needs further investigation to be fully understood.”&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-microplastics-and-community-health">Microplastics and community health</h2>



The study offers a snapshot in time, highlighting that a key limitation was the lack of longitudinal tracking to see whether rising or falling marine microplastic levels coincide with changes in community health over extended periods.&nbsp;



Nonetheless, the results open a door to more exploration of how small-scale pollutants might have large-scale effects on population health, especially in regions most exposed to marine pollution.



While the link between microplastic levels and disabilities remains tentative, the findings point to a potential intersection of environmental science and neurological well-being.&nbsp;



Researchers hope that further work on both sides - studying how plastic behaves in coastal ecosystems, and how human health outcomes might shift - could offer clearer answers in the years ahead.



This preliminary study was released on February 25, 2025, and will be presented at the <a href="https://www.aan.com/events/annual-meeting" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">American Academy of Neurology’s 77th Annual Meeting</a>, set to take place April 5–9, 2025.&nbsp;



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Ocean plastics linked to disability risks for coastal residents 

Tiny plastic particles in coastal waters may be linked to...

The extraction of sand from the ocean floor for construction and other industries has surged. Despite its far-reaching impacts on aquatic ecosystems, this activity is largely overlooked and unregulated.



Scientists have been urging governments, communities, and investors to acknowledge the value of the grains that rest beneath our seas. 



Highlighting the importance of sand has never been more critical, especially as it relates to balancing human progress with <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/record-ocean-warming-in-2024-is-a-warning-for-our-planet/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">aquatic</a> preservation.



"Sand is a critical resource that shapes the built and natural worlds," said Jianguo “Jack” Liu of Michigan State University.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-sand-extraction-harms-ecosystems">Sand extraction harms ecosystems</h2>



The growing practice of sediment dredging has sparked concerns about water cloudiness and smothered seagrasses. In 2017, researchers highlighted these risks in a paper published in the journal <a href="https://www.science.org/doi/10.1126/science.aao0503" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Science</a>.



The report emphasized how nations tend to ignore the delicate balance between development and safeguarding marine biodiversity. Habitats are often disturbed by sand extraction, which can send local economies into a tailspin.



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



Aurora Torres is a researcher at the University of Alicante in Spain and the study's lead author.



"Since sand extraction is closely linked to coastal erosion, climate adaptation, and biodiversity loss, integrating it into broader environmental policies - such as marine protected areas, blue carbon strategies, climate resilience plans, and strategic <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/earths-oceans-are-rapidly-changing-colors-matching-climate-predictions/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">natural resource</a> management - is crucial to ensuring it is not treated as an isolated issue," said Torres.



Collaborative strategies that link communities, policymakers, and scientists are gaining momentum. Marine environments offer resources for everything from fishing to tourism, yet sand extraction lags behind in terms of regulations and oversight. 



Metacoupling methods, which examine social and ecological interactions across regions, could offer a path to identifying better solutions.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-largely-overlooked-sand-extraction">Largely overlooked sand extraction</h2>



Many coastal regions see dredging as a localized activity, even though <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/marine-microbes-can-tell-us-about-global-changes-in-the-ocean/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">marine</a> sand collection ranks among the most common human operations in nearshore areas after fishing. 



As a result of this neglect in public discourse, long-term damage is overlooked that may affect future generations.



Coastal erosion speeds up when sediment is stripped away, threatening shores that protect communities from storms. These areas often lose their natural defenses, leaving them vulnerable to rising seas and heavier wave action.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-impacts-on-ocean-life">Impacts on ocean life</h2>



Marine species rely on underwater dunes and sediment for spawning, nourishment, and shelter. 



Disrupting these zones can set off a chain reaction that leaves both small plankton and larger fish struggling to survive.



Clouded waters can hamper photosynthesis in seagrasses, while loosening sediment can carry invasive species to vulnerable areas. Scientists suggest that accountability in extraction is a key to halting further harm.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-global-demand-for-ocean-sand">The global demand for ocean sand </h2>



Concrete, asphalt, and numerous modern products require sand, and this resource is generally easy to get. 



The <a href="https://www.unep.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">United Nations Environment Programme</a> notes that global sand usage likely tops tens of billions of tons each year, prompting calls for responsible management.



Some countries are putting measures in place to protect coasts from over-extraction. Others face pressure to supply rapidly expanding markets that need raw materials for infrastructure and technology.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-sustainable-solutions-to-reduce-damage">Sustainable solutions to reduce damage</h2>



Partnerships between environmental agencies and construction industries could incentivize more sustainable practices to protect sand. 



Restoration efforts and well-enforced <a href="https://marineprotectedareas.noaa.gov/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">marine protected areas</a> may offer long-term benefits for local ecosystems and economies alike.



"Ultimately, the key to action is making sand extraction visible - through stronger data, improved governance, and direct links to pressing environmental and economic concerns," noted Torres. 



"The more evident and tangible its impacts become, the harder it will be to ignore the need for responsible management."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-unchecked-resource-extraction">Unchecked resource extraction</h2>



Scientists are optimistic that global awareness can alter the course of unchecked resource use. Some regions are already testing innovative recycling techniques that reduce the demand for freshly mined sand.



Addressing these challenges will involve public engagement, political commitment, and corporate responsibility. 



Ecosystems that depend on healthy sediment cycles have a lot to gain from more transparent data and systematic assessments. The costs of ignoring these signals will extend beyond <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/mining-the-arctic-seabed-threatens-fragile-ecosystems/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">coastlines</a> and ripple into human livelihoods.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2590332225000284" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">One Earth</a>.



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Sand extraction is an overlooked threat to marine ecosystems

The extraction of sand from the ocean floor for construction...

Many people sense that summers are blazing more fiercely while winters are growing strangely mild. Changing cloud patterns and shifting climate conditions raise questions about what is pushing global temperatures to new heights.



Global temperatures were about 1.5 degrees Celsius above predindustrial levels in 2023 and 2024. Experts say a variety of factors, such as El Niño, contributed to this spike, yet these factors alone do not paint the full picture.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-shrinking-clouds-and-a-hotter-climate">Shrinking clouds and a hotter climate</h2>



Andrew Gettelman is a scientist specializing in clouds and climate change at the University of Colorado at Boulder. He has been looking at how subtle changes in cloud patterns may magnify the heat. 



The research points to fading cloud <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/cloud-engineering-can-temporarily-cool-our-planet/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">coverage</a> as a major contributor to global warming in some regions.



Clouds typically work like a natural thermostat. They can reflect sunlight back into space, but they also bounce heat toward the ground depending on their type and altitude.



The idea that certain types of cloud cover are shrinking has gained attention in the scientific community. Observations show that big puffy <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/earthcare-reveals-the-power-of-clouds-and-aerosols/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">clouds</a>, which do more cooling, are not lingering as much as they used to.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-shift-in-the-stormy-zones">A shift in the stormy zones</h2>



A significant discovery was made based on observations by the <a href="https://terra.nasa.gov/about/terra-instruments/ceres">CERES instrument</a> (Clouds and the Earth's Radiant Energy System), which has been monitoring Earth's energy balance for more than 20 years.



The results suggest a noticeable contraction of the midlatitude storm zones and tropical rainy areas. In other words, thinner <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/rainforest-emissions-shape-the-climate-and-cloud-formation/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cloud belts</a> in these regions used to have thicker, broader coverage. Scientists believe these narrower zones reflect less sunlight away.



"We've always understood that the cloud feedback is positive - and it very well could be strong. This seems to explain a big part of why clouds are changing the way they are," said George Tselioudis, a climate scientist at <a href="https://www.giss.nasa.gov/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NASA's Goddard Institute for Space Studies</a>.



The research suggests that there has been about a 1.5% drop per decade in some of these storm-cloud regions. This estimate aligns with an ongoing rise in the amount of energy that Earth is retaining.



Researchers track albedo to see how much sunlight bounces back. When albedo falls, more heat stays in our atmosphere.



Scientists say cloud cover is a leading factor behind Earth’s lower albedo in recent years. Less reflection translates into extra warming that was once thought to be missing in the overall climate equation.



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



"We have a really strong climate signal - and from year to year it's getting stronger," said Helge Goessling from the Alfred Wegener Institute in Germany.



Goessling highlighted the link between shortfalls in low-altitude clouds and rising temperatures.&nbsp;



Even slight drops in cloud coverage can have a ripple effect. Clouds move heat around in complex ways, so less of them can tip the balance toward more warming.



In response to this pattern, scientists are calling for urgent climate mitigation strategies. When these cloud changes overlap with other factors, it becomes more difficult to slow global warming.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-clouds-shifting-over-time">Clouds shifting over time</h2>



Models sometimes disagree on how clouds will shift over time. Some projections show bigger cloud decreases, while others see more moderate trends.



Experts admit that these small but meaningful shifts could ramp up faster than anticipated. If that happens, temperatures could climb at the higher end of climate forecasts.



Narrower <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-small-aerosols-influence-cloud-formation/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cloud belts</a> also hint at changes in global wind patterns, jet streams, and rainfall. The exact reasons remain uncertain, but a growing collection of research emphasizes how important clouds are in controlling our thermostat.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-monitoring-cloud-cover-and-climate">Monitoring cloud cover and climate </h2>



Improved monitoring of cloud cover is crucial. This means tracking real-time satellite observations and using advanced models to spot shifts before they accelerate.



Further research is needed to pinpoint exactly why low-level cloud regions might shrink. A detailed record of local conditions will help refine climate predictions.



Scientists are studying the effects of pollution, ocean temperatures, and airborne particles, as each factor could influence cloud formation and dissipation. Experts stress the importance of considering all these elements together.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.researchsquare.com/article/rs-5050391/v1" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Research Square</a>.



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Fading clouds are accelerating climate change

Many people sense that summers are blazing more fiercely while...

The amount of carbon dioxide (CO2) in the atmosphere has been increasing rapidly, leading to severe climate consequences. 



However, researchers at <a href="https://www.wur.nl/en.htm" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Wageningen University</a> have identified an unexpected benefit of rising CO2 levels: tropical trees have become more efficient at photosynthesis over the past century.



"Tropical forests substantially influence the terrestrial carbon sink. Their contributions to the forest carbon sink may increase due to the stimulation of photosynthesis by rising atmospheric CO2; however, the magnitude of this effect is poorly quantified for tropical canopy trees," noted the researchers.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-tree-photosynthesis-and-rising-co2">Tree photosynthesis and rising CO2</h2>



The study revealed that the increase in CO2 concentrations has enabled <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/tropical-trees-with-thick-leaves-may-thrive-in-higher-co2-conditions/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">tropical trees</a> to enhance their carbon-absorbing capabilities.



The results are based on a new method which allowed the researchers to examine the influence of CO2 on trees over the last 100 years. Using wood samples, the team investigated how tree photosynthesis has responded to rising levels of carbon.



The experts collected wood samples from red cedar trees in Australia, Thailand, and Bangladesh. Using a hollow drill, they extracted thin cylindrical pieces of wood that reveal the tree's growth rings.



"From such a sample, you can not only tell how much the tree has grown, but it also acts as a kind of time capsule, showing how the tree functioned in a particular year," explained study lead author Sophie Zwartsenberg. 



"That information is encoded in the chemical composition of the wood, which we analyzed in detail."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-sugar-production-in-trees">Sugar production in trees</h2>



Sugars are essential for trees, playing a crucial role in their growth and survival. Without sugars, a tree cannot sustain itself. From the analysis of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/tree-rings-reveal-the-carbon-storage-capacity-of-a-forest/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">tree rings</a>, scientists can determine how well trees have produced sugars through photosynthesis over the last century.



<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/revealing-the-secrets-of-photosynthesis-through-pep/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Photosynthesis</a> is affected by the concentration of CO2 in the atmosphere. Low levels cause the enzyme that traps CO2 to make more errors. Rather than bind with CO2, it can bind with oxygen (O₂), resulting in wasted energy. This process is called photorespiration.



"You can compare it to a bag of marbles," said Zwartsenberg. "If there are many CO2 balls mixed in with the oxygen, the enzyme is more likely to pick CO2. But if it fails and grabs oxygen instead, the tree wastes energy without producing any sugar. This process is called photorespiration and is different from photosynthesis."



Since higher CO2 levels reduce the occurrence of photorespiration, trees can use more energy for growth and maintenance. This is not only beneficial for trees but also for humans, as increased photosynthesis means that trees absorb more CO2 from the atmosphere.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-increase-in-photosynthetic-efficiency">Increase in photosynthetic efficiency</h2>



To analyze these changes, the scientists used a chemical method developed at a Swedish university. This technique examines sugar molecules, which form differently depending on whether they result from photosynthesis (CO2 capture) or photorespiration (O2 capture).



The analysis is conducted with a specialized device that uses magnetic fields to examine tiny wood samples. "It's like a giant MRI machine," noted Zwartsenberg.



By measuring sugar molecules in tree rings, the researchers found a consistent increase in photosynthetic efficiency over the past century. Interestingly, smaller trees showed greater improvements in efficiency compared to larger ones.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-extra-co2-in-trees">Extra CO2 in trees</h2>



"This is the first time we have been able to demonstrate the effect of extra CO2 in mature trees that have grown under natural conditions," said study co-author Professor Pieter Zuidema.



"Positive CO2 effects on photosynthesis have long been known from greenhouse studies on small plants. The fact that the balance between photosynthesis and photorespiration has shifted toward photosynthesis means that <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/tropical-forests-have-strategies-to-survive-in-nutrient-poor-soils/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">tropical forests</a> have been producing more sugars for a century."



"The question remains, however, where the trees have invested those extra sugars. Other research suggests that, in most cases, they do not form wider tree rings. This would be a next step."



Though the research points to a possible advantage of increasing CO2 levels, the overall risks of climate change remain. The most important action to mitigate these risks is reducing greenhouse gas emissions, primarily by transitioning away from fossil fuels to renewable energy sources.



The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://nph.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/nph.20358" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">New Phytologist</a>.



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Rising CO2 levels have made tropical trees more efficient

The amount of carbon dioxide (CO2) in the atmosphere has...

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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Traffic fumes may trigger Alzheimer's

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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What caused the planet's longest ice age

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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Greenland's ground rises while coasts worldwide face higher seas

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

AI agent training boosts mental health and profits

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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Revolutionizing agriculture through microbiome engineering

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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The environmental problem we actually solved

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

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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Wildlife tunnels save millions of amphibians

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

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



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



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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



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Wetlands are a major source of methane emissions

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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The rapid retreat of the Columbia Glacier

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

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



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



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



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



Video/ Image Credit: NASA Goddard



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



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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

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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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

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

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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

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

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

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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



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Mysterious "spoke season" captured on Saturn

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