Today's Image of the Day from <a href="https://earthobservatory.nasa.gov/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NASA Earth Observatory</a> features an astronaut view of the Aladaghlar Mountains in northwestern Iran. These mountains are known for their strikingly colorful landscapes, which make them stand out among other mountain ranges.



"Ridges cast shadows in the valleys and other low elevation areas, creating a three-dimensional appearance. Human alterations to the landscape are most evident in riverbeds, where the even topography is easier to build on and navigate," said NASA.



"Natural processes over millions of years have folded rock layers of various compositions and colors into the curved patterns seen here. These folds are produced by tectonic forces operating along the convergent plate boundary of the Arabia and Eurasia plates. The convergence of these tectonic plates causes uplift, folding, and deformation of the colorful rock layers, and subsequent erosion exposes them."



One of the most remarkable features of the Aladaghlar Mountains is the vivid coloration of their slopes. The name "Aladaghlar" translates to "Colorful Mountains," which is a testament to their unique appearance. 



The Aladaghlar Mountains are part of a larger ecosystem that includes forests, meadows, and rivers, contributing to a rich biodiversity. The region supports a variety of wildlife, including several species that are unique to the area. The diverse wildlife add to the natural beauty and ecological importance of these <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-and-why-do-mountains-form-new-theories-for-an-age-old-mystery/">mountains</a>.



In addition to their natural appeal, the Aladaghlar Mountains hold cultural significance. The region has a rich history, with evidence of ancient civilizations and historical sites. Local communities have their unique cultures and traditions, which have been influenced by the natural environment of the mountains.



Image Credit: NASA Earth Observatory&nbsp;



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The Aladaghlar Mountains of northwestern Iran

Today's Image of the Day from NASA Earth Observatory features...

Today's Image of the Day from <a href="https://earthobservatory.nasa.gov/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NASA Earth Observatory</a> features a large sediment plume from the Yangtze River that extends hundreds of kilometers off the coast of China.



"Brown, sediment-laden water is visible along this shallow, turbid stretch of coast year-round, but a vast plume like the one visible here is a characteristic feature of winter. Scientists have proposed several causes of this seasonal phenomenon," said NASA.



"The ebb and flow of tides contain enough energy to stir up sediments from the seafloor, a 2017 study found. While there are also tides in the summer, the models used in the study showed that sediment only rises to the surface in the winter. That’s when temperatures and salinities at the sea surface and bottom are similar, allowing for vertical mixing to occur and for sediment to churn higher into the water column."



Additional studies have suggested that the summer monsoon’s influence on currents impedes the eastward flow of sediment out of the estuaries, noted NASA.



"Despite what looks like a glut of suspended sediment in the water, the overall amount of it flowing from the Yangtze River has declined steadily over the past several decades. The construction of dams, including the Three Gorges Dam, has been the primary driver of this trend."



It is important for scientists to track the movement of suspended sediment. This material can cause direct harm to marine life, as well as indirect harm by blocking sunlight.



The Yangtze River, also known as the Chang Jiang in Chinese, is the longest river in Asia and the third-longest in the world, following the Nile and the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/amazon-river-dolphins-are-at-great-risk-of-extinction-due-to-human-activities/">Amazon</a>. It flows for over 6,300 kilometers (about 3,917 miles) from the glaciers of the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau in western China to the East China Sea at Shanghai.&nbsp;



The Yangtze River basin is a key region for China's agriculture, industry, and hydroelectric power production. The river's waters are used for irrigation, navigation, and as a source of freshwater. The basin is home to diverse wildlife, including the critically endangered Yangtze river dolphin or Baiji, which may now be extinct.



The image was captured on February 12, 2024 by the Visible Infrared Imaging Radiometer Suite sensor on the NOAA-20 satellite.



Image Credit: NASA Earth Observatory



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Sediment flows offshore from the Yangtze River 

Today's Image of the Day from <a href="https://earthobservatory.nasa.gov/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NASA Earth Observatory</a> features the Ruki River in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). It is a tributary of the Congo River, one of the largest <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/warmer-rivers-keep-antimicrobial-resistant-genes-at-bay/">rivers</a> in the world by discharge and depth. 



The Ruki River, previously known as the Busira, merges with the Momboyo River near the town of Basankusu to become the Lulonga River, which eventually flows into the Congo River at the town of Lisala.



"If the appearance of the muddy Amazon River evokes a coffee cut with cream, the Ruki River, coursing gently through the Congo Basin, is like a dark tea," said NASA.



"On its slow path through mostly untouched lowland rainforest in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), the water leaches organic material from vegetation, prompting some researchers to think it is one of the darkest blackwater rivers on Earth. The dissolved material in this distinctive water, scientists are finding, offers clues into the carbon cycle of tropical forests."



In a recent study, researchers measured the chemical composition and flow of the Ruki for the first time.&nbsp;



"The study reported that, as the water color suggests, the Ruki is rich in dissolved organic carbon compounds. It contains four times as much organic carbon as the Congo River and 1.5 times as much as the Rio Negro, the world’s largest blackwater river and a major tributary of the Amazon," said NASA.



Due to this heavy carbon load, the researchers concluded that “tropical forests like those around the Ruki might not accumulate quite as much carbon as we once thought.”



The region around the Ruki River is rich in biodiversity, hosting various species of flora and fauna. It is part of the Congo Basin, the second-largest tropical rainforest area in the world, which is a critical habitat for endangered species and a significant carbon sink.



The river is vital for the livelihoods of local communities. Fishing is a crucial activity, with many people depending on it for sustenance and income. The river also supports agriculture along its banks, where communities grow crops.



In many parts of the DRC, rivers like the Ruki are crucial transportation corridors due to the challenging and often nonexistent road infrastructure. The river enables the movement of people and goods, facilitating trade and access to markets, health care, and education.



The region faces several challenges, including deforestation, overfishing, and environmental degradation, which threaten its ecological balance and the livelihoods of people who depend on it. Efforts to manage and conserve the river's resources are vital for sustainable development.



Understanding and protecting the Ruki River and its surroundings are crucial for the DRC's environmental sustainability, economic development, and the well-being of its communities.



The image was captured by the OLI (Operational Land Imager) on Landsat 8.



Image Credit: NASA Earth Observatory&nbsp;



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The Ruki River in the Democratic Republic of the Congo

Today's Image of the Day from <a href="https://earthobservatory.nasa.gov/">NASA Earth Observatory</a> features dust streaming from Lago Colhué Huapi, a shallow endorheic lake located in the Chubut Province in southern Argentina.



"Strong northwesterly winds often race down the eastern side of the Andes Mountains and whip across the central Patagonian Desert. In the process, they sometimes lift dust from Argentina’s drying Lago Colhué Huapi, fueling intense dust storms," said NASA.



"Lago Colhué Huapi is a particularly rich source of dust because the shallow lake regularly grows and shrinks with variations in the flow of the Senguer River and the pace of evaporation. When lake water levels are low, as they were when MODIS captured this image, fine-grained, lightweight particles are easily transported by the wind."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-dust-activity-from-lago-colhue-huapi">Dust activity from Lago Colhué Huapi</h2>



<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/dust-storms-in-the-gulf-of-alaska-help-shape-the-global-climate/">Dust storms</a> in this region are most common during the summer months from December to March. There are 15 to 30 dust storms in a typical year.&nbsp;



"Dust storms are frequent and persistent enough in this area that they have exposed an open-air archaeological site along the lake’s edge," said NASA.



"The Puesto Roberts 1 site, located in an old floodplain on the southeast side of Lago Colhué Huapi, was first identified in 2019 when archaeologists noticed that winds had exposed a five-centimeter layer of sandy loam soil littered with stone tools and the bones of a wild species of llama called guanaco."



"Archaeologists identified 427 artifacts at the site - including stone cutting blades, milling tools, scrapers, and egg-shaped bola stones used for hunting - spread across 15 square meters, according to a 2022 study led by Heidi Hammond, an archaeologist at the National University of the Patagonia San Juan Bosco."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-more-about-lago-colhue-huapi">More about Lago Colhué Huapi</h2>



This lake is an interesting geographical feature primarily because it acts as a seasonal sink for the Senguerr River, which in turn gathers waters from various smaller streams in the region. 



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-size">Size</h3>



Due to its shallow nature, the size of Lago Colhué Huapi can vary significantly with the seasons and the amount of water it receives from its sources. During times of drought or reduced rainfall, the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/climate-change-is-pushing-lakes-to-their-boiling-point/">lake</a> can shrink considerably, affecting the local ecosystem and the wildlife that depends on it.



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



The lake's surroundings are characterized by a semi-arid climate, which influences the type of vegetation and animal life that can thrive in the area. Despite the harsh conditions, the region around Lago Colhué Huapi supports a variety of bird species, making it a site of interest for birdwatchers and naturalists.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-environmental-challenges">Environmental challenges </h3>



In recent years, Lago Colhué Huapi has faced environmental challenges, including the impact of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/alarming-study-most-of-the-worlds-largest-lakes-are-quickly-losing-water/">climate change</a>, which has led to lower water levels and increased salinity. These changes pose threats to the lake's ecological balance and the species that inhabit its waters and shores. The situation at Lago Colhué Huapi serves as a reminder of the broader environmental issues facing water bodies in arid and semi-arid regions around the world.



The image was captured on March 29, 2024 by the MODIS (Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer) on NASA’s Aqua satellite.



Image Credit: NASA Earth Observatory



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Dust streams from Lago Colhué Huapi in Argentina 

Today's Image of the Day from <a href="https://earthobservatory.nasa.gov/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NASA Earth Observatory</a> features thick haze over Thailand during the fire season. The photograph was captured by the VIIRS (Visible Infrared Imaging Radiometer Suite) on the Suomi NPP satellite on March 16, 2024.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-waves-of-smoke-and-haze">Waves of smoke and haze</h2>



"Each year in January and February, satellites begin to detect waves of smoke and fire in Southeast Asia, particularly in highland forests in Cambodia, Laos, Myanmar, and Thailand. Fire activity continues to increase through March and April, reaches a peak during the height of the dry season, and then fades in May with the start of the rainy season," noted NASA.



"Individual fires are usually small and short-lived. But they are often so numerous that smoke, along with air pollution from rural and urban areas, mixes to produce thick layers of haze that blanket the landscape." 



"Such hazes contain mixtures of small airborne particles called aerosols and gaseous pollutants such as nitrogen dioxide, sulfur dioxide, carbon monoxide, and ozone that degrade air quality and have harmful health effects."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-haze-in-thailand-nbsp">Haze in Thailand&nbsp;</h2>



An international field campaign - the Airborne and Satellite Investigation of Asian Air Quality (ASIA-AQ) - was recently launched to investigate the haze in Thailand.



"During the last two weeks of March 2024, NASA’s DC-8 and Gulfstream III aircraft flew several flights over Chiang Mai, Bangkok, and rural areas surrounding the cities to sample air quality with several sensors. At the same time, satellites observed the haze from above," said NASA.



James Crawford, ASIA-AQ’s principal investigator, said the team is collaborating closely with national and local government entities in Thailand.



“The goal is to take as many simultaneous measurements of pollutants as possible from the ground, air, and space,” said Crawford. The team will use the data to gain a better understanding of how the haze forms, evolves chemically over time, and moves throughout the region.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-haze-and-public-health-in-thailand">Haze and public health in Thailand </h2>



According to media reports, nearly 200,000 people have been hospitalized this year due to air quality in the region, with over 1.3 million people falling ill since January.&nbsp;



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-root-causes">Root causes</h3>



The root causes of the haze include agricultural burning, particularly of corn fields, as part of slash-and-burn practices to prepare land for the next planting cycle. This is exacerbated by the dry season when there's little rain to wash the pollutants away. 



The situation is worsened by industrial emissions and vehicle fumes, particularly in urban areas like Bangkok​.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-sustainable-solutions-are-needed">Sustainable solutions are needed</h3>



Efforts to address the crisis have been complex, involving local and transboundary issues. Much of the agricultural burning occurs not only within Thailand but also in neighboring countries like Myanmar and Laos, contributing to the transboundary nature of the haze. 



Activists and local communities have called for sustainable solutions that do not exacerbate the poverty of smallholder farmers, emphasizing the need for affordable and realistic alternatives to burning​.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-mitigation-measures-nbsp">Mitigation measures&nbsp;</h3>



The Thai government has implemented a no-burning rule until the end of April to combat wildfires and haze, but enforcement and effectiveness remain challenges​​. 



Some measures taken to mitigate the immediate effects of pollution in urban areas include spraying water and seeding clouds to encourage rain, although these have had limited success​​.



This ongoing environmental crisis has sparked widespread concern among citizens, who are increasingly using public interest litigation to hold companies and the government accountable for environmental commitments. 



With recent political changes, there is hope that the new administration will take more decisive action against the haze, possibly through more stringent regulations and international cooperation​​.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-health-impacts-of-haze">Health impacts of haze</h2>



Haze poses several health hazards for those exposed to it, particularly when it contains fine particulate matter (PM2.5). Here are some of the main health risks associated with exposure to haze:



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-respiratory-problems">Respiratory problems</h3>



Haze can aggravate conditions such as asthma, bronchitis, and other chronic obstructive pulmonary diseases (COPD). The fine <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/heatwaves-and-air-pollution-may-double-fatal-heart-attack-risk/">particles</a> can penetrate deep into the lungs, causing inflammation and reducing lung function.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-cardiovascular-issues-and-haze">Cardiovascular issues and haze</h3>



Exposure to fine particulate matter can also affect the cardiovascular system, leading to increased risk of heart attacks, strokes, and high blood pressure. Particles can affect blood vessel function and promote the formation of blood clots.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-eye-irritation">Eye irritation</h3>



Haze can cause eye irritation, leading to conditions such as conjunctivitis (pink eye) or exacerbated symptoms in people with existing eye conditions.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-skin-problems">Skin problems</h3>



For some people, exposure to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/air-pollution-will-increase-dramatically-in-a-hotter-climate/">polluted air</a> can cause skin irritation or exacerbate skin conditions like eczema or psoriasis.



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



There is evidence to suggest that prolonged exposure to polluted air can weaken the immune system, making individuals more susceptible to infections.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-impact-on-mental-health">Impact on mental health</h3>



There are growing concerns about the impact of air pollution on <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/air-pollution-linked-to-multiple-chronic-health-conditions/">mental health</a>, with studies suggesting a link between exposure to polluted air and an increased risk of depression and anxiety.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-pregnant-women-and-children">Pregnant women and children</h3>



Pregnant women, children, and the elderly are particularly vulnerable to the effects of haze. There may be increased risks of preterm birth and low birth weight in babies, and children may experience delayed development and reduced lung function.



The health impacts of haze can be mitigated by staying indoors on days when air quality is particularly poor, using air purifiers, wearing masks designed to filter out fine particles, and following local health advisories.



Image Credit: NASA Earth Observatory



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

Haze pollution is an environmental crisis in Thailand

The discovery of a second massive jawbone, over two meters in length, on a beach in Somerset, UK, has recently piqued the interest of paleontologists. This fossil, along with the first one found, has been identified as belonging to a previously unknown species of giant <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/mysterious-150-year-old-bones-identified-as-ichthyosaur-jaws/">ichthyosaur</a> - a marine reptile from prehistoric times. Researchers estimate that this creature would have spanned more than 25 meters in length, akin to the size of a blue whale.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-discovery-of-the-marine-reptile-nbsp">Discovery of the marine reptile&nbsp;</h2>



This significant find was made by Justin and Ruby Reynolds, a father and daughter duo from Braunton, Devon. During a fossil hunting trip in May 2020 at Blue Anchor, Somerset, 11-year-old Ruby stumbled upon the first fragment of this colossal jawbone.&nbsp;



Realizing the importance of their find, they contacted Dr. Dean Lomax, a leading ichthyosaur expert and a paleontologist at the <a href="https://www.manchester.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Manchester</a> as well as a research fellow at the <a href="https://www.bristol.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Bristol.</a> Lomax then reached out to Paul de la Salle, a seasoned fossil collector who had discovered the first giant <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/giant-lizards-were-thriving-during-the-age-of-dinosaurs/">jawbone</a> in 2016 along the same coastline.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-multimillion-year-old-jigsaw-puzzle">A multimillion-year-old jigsaw puzzle</h2>



“I was amazed by the find,” Lomax said. “In 2018, my team (including Paul de la Salle) studied and described Paul’s giant jawbone and we had hoped that one day another would come to light. This new specimen is more complete, better preserved, and shows that we now have two of these giant bones - called a surangular - that have a unique shape and structure. I became very excited, to say the least.”



Fueled by this initial success, Justin, Ruby, Paul, Lomax, and several family members returned to the site to search for more pieces. Their efforts were fruitful, eventually piecing together more fragments that fit perfectly together, like a multimillion-year-old jigsaw puzzle.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-new-species-of-giant-marine-reptile-nbsp">New species of giant marine reptile&nbsp;</h2>



The analysis revealed that these jawbones belonged to a new species of giant ichthyosaur, which they named Ichthyotitan severnensis or "giant fish lizard of the Severn." These <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/fossils-capture-a-turning-point-in-the-evolution-of-life/">fossils</a>, dating back approximately 202 million years to the end of the Triassic Period, represent some of the last members of the Shastasauridae family before they disappeared due to a global <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/extinction-event-shows-how-life-responds-to-extreme-changes/">mass extinction </a>event.



This discovery also aligns with findings of other large ichthyosaurs, such as Shonisaurus sikanniensis from Canada and Himalayasaurus tibetensis from China, although the new species appears around 13 million years after these relatives.



Dr. Lomax invited Ruby and Justin to join his research team in studying and naming this prehistoric creature. Ruby, now recognized as a young scientist, said that “it was so cool to discover part of this gigantic ichthyosaur. I am very proud to have played a part in a scientific discovery like this.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-biological-limits-of-vertebrates-nbsp">Biological limits of vertebrates&nbsp;</h2>



Further investigations into the bones by Marcello Perillo, a master’s student from the <a href="https://www.uni-bonn.de/en/university/university">University of Bonn</a>, confirmed the ichthyosaur origin and revealed that the creature was still growing at the time of its death.&nbsp;



“We could confirm the unique set of histological characters typical of giant ichthyosaur lower jaws: the anomalous periosteal growth of these bones hints at yet to be understood bone developmental strategies, now lost in the deep time, that likely allowed late Triassic ichthyosaurs to reach the known biological limits of vertebrates in terms of size,” Perillo explained.



“To think that my discovery in 2016 would spark so much interest in these enormous creatures fills me with joy. When I found the first jawbone, I knew it was something special. To have a second that confirms our findings is incredible. I am overjoyed,” de la Salle said.



“This research has been ongoing for almost eight years. It is quite remarkable to think that gigantic, blue whale-sized ichthyosaurs were swimming in the oceans around what was the UK during the Triassic Period. These jawbones provide tantalizing evidence that perhaps one day a complete skull or skeleton of one of these giants might be found. You never know,” Lomax concluded.



The study is published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0300289" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">PLoS ONE</a> and the jawbone will soon go on display at the <a href="https://www.bristolmuseums.org.uk/bristol-museum-and-art-gallery/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Bristol Museum and Art Gallery</a>.



Image Credit: Sergey Krasovskiy.



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Largest known marine reptile - a giant ichthyosaur - has been found

The discovery of a second massive jawbone, over two meters...

Mechanized,Industry,Robot,And,Robotic,Arms,For,Assembly,In,Factory

In an era where automation is becoming increasingly integral to industrial processes, the demand for RoboSapiens -- robots that can intelligently adapt to their environment and unforeseen circumstances -- is surging. 



The new RoboSapiens project, funded by <a href="https://research-and-innovation.ec.europa.eu/funding/funding-opportunities/funding-programmes-and-open-calls/horizon-europe_en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Horizon Europe</a> with a substantial grant, aims to meet the growing need for adaptable robots. It focuses on enhancing the adaptability and reliability of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/robotsweater-a-new-fabric-enables-robots-to-feel-and-react-to-human-touch/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">industrial robots</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-leading-the-charge-for-smarter-robots">Leading the charge for smarter robots</h2>



Under the leadership of Professor Peter Gorm Larsen from the Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering at <a href="https://ece.au.dk/en/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Aarhus University</a>, RoboSapiens is set to transform the landscape of <a href="https://digit.au.dk/research-projects/robosapiens" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">robotic technology</a>. 



"We see great benefits if robots can adapt to conditions, learn from their surroundings, and then change their behavior to better suit the task," explains <a href="https://pure.au.dk/portal/da/persons/pgl%40ece.au.dk" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Professor Larsen</a>. "All the while maintaining or even increasing their expected performance and remaining as safe and robust as before.



This project aims to significantly enhance robot capabilities, allowing them to autonomously adapt to new and unexpected challenges. It focuses on self-adaptation, safety, and advanced <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/environmental-health-ai-can-identify-insects-based-on-their-sounds/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">deep learning</a> techniques to manage uncertainties during these adaptations.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-four-pillars-of-robotic-advancement">Four pillars of robotic advancement</h2>



Scheduled to run from January 2024 to December 2027, RoboSapiens will concentrate on achieving four main objectives:



<ol>
<li>Enabling robotics to autonomously adapt in response to unprecedented changes in system structures and environments. </li>



<li>Enhancing robot safety software to ensure exceptional performance before, during, and after adaptation processes. </li>



<li>Leveraging deep learning to actively mitigate uncertainties associated with robotic self-adaptation. </li>



<li>Guaranteeing the reliability of robotic systems as they learn to independently navigate and interact with their surroundings.</li>
</ol>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-targeting-diverse-robotic-applications-with-robosapiens">Targeting diverse robotic applications with RoboSapiens</h2>



RoboSapiens will explore these innovations through four diverse use-cases. These include autonomous ship navigation, collaborative <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/should-robots-be-programmed-to-have-human-consciousness/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">human-robot</a> interactions, intra-warehouse robot navigation, and automated laptop refurbishment.



Mikkel Labori Olsen, a consultant at the <a href="https://www.dti.dk/specialists/robot-technology-and-automation/39709" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Centre for Robotics</a> at the Danish Technological Institute, expresses his excitement for the project's practical applications. He highlights the project's role in promoting sustainable manufacturing processes.



"Robots have helped increase production for decades. In our use-cases, we’ll take a closer look at how we can scale up circular processes using automated robots, thereby extending the lifespan of products instead of producing new ones," Olsen states. 



Initially focusing on laptop refurbishment, including tasks like screen repairs, the project plans to progressively expand these efforts.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-new-standards-for-autonomous-robot-improvement">New standards for autonomous robot improvement</h2>



A key feature of RoboSapiens is its commitment to safety and continuous enhancement without the need for frequent recertification. 



"We want robots to be able to gradually improve. We want to demonstrate that we can achieve sufficient safety without recertification, thereby ensure autonomy and that the robot adapts appropriately by using intelligent safety systems and control software," Larsen concluded.



This approach aims to diminish limitations and boost the robots' capability to adapt to complex and unexpected conditions.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-robosapiens-and-the-future-of-robotics">RoboSapiens and the future of robotics</h2>



In summary, the RoboSapiens project is set to revolutionize the field of robotics by developing adaptable, reliable, and safe robots that can navigate unprecedented situations and work seamlessly alongside humans. 



By focusing on four key pillars of robotic advancement and exploring diverse applications, from autonomous ships to laptop refurbishment, the project aims to reduce limitations and increase robots' ability to adapt to unforeseen events and changes in their environment. 



With the combined expertise of its partners and the vision of gradual improvement and intelligent safety systems, RoboSapiens paves the way for a new era in robotics, reshaping industries and unlocking new possibilities for the future.



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RoboSapiens: AI is making industrial robots more 'free thinking'

In an era where automation is becoming increasingly integral to...

Financial,Costs,Of,Pollution,And,Economic,Cost,Of,Polluted,Water

Climate change is no longer a distant threat. The economic impacts are already being felt globally, and substantial new studies quantify the financial risks associated with a warming planet. 



If left unchecked, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/climate-crisis-global-supply-chains-face-25-trillion-in-losses/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">climate change</a> could severely destabilize national and global economies by reducing Gross Domestic Product (GDP).



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



Let's be absolutely clear on one thing: Doing nothing about climate change is not an affordable option. 



<a href="https://ethz.ch/en.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ETH Zurich</a> researchers determined that a 37.4 °Fahrenheit (3ºC) increase in average global temperatures could significantly reduce worldwide GDP by a substantial 10%. 



This GDP loss represents a major disruption to the overall economic activity and productivity of nations around the globe.



It's important to note that the 37.4 °F warming scenario is alarmingly within reach if current greenhouse gas <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/co2-emissions-reduction-20-percent-possible-only-2-percent-economic-loss/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">emission trends</a> continue. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-climate-change-impact-on-economic-growth-sectors">Climate change impact on economic growth sectors</h2>



While past projections considered rising temperatures, the ETH Zurich study highlights an often-overlooked aspect: climate variability. 



Factoring in more extreme temperature swings and unpredictable rainfall patterns reveals that the negative economic consequences of climate change are likely more severe than previously estimated.



The <a href="https://www.pik-potsdam.de/en/home" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Potsdam Institute for Climate Impact Research</a> has issued a stark warning about the economic consequences of climate change. Their recent study predicts a potential income reduction of a staggering 19% for the world's economy by 2050. 



To put this 19% reduction in perspective, the PIK study translates it into a real-world figure: a staggering $38 trillion in annual losses by 2050. 



This immense sum represents the estimated cumulative financial burden of climate change on the global economy every single year.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-why-it-s-worse-than-we-thought">Why it's worse than we thought</h2>



"It turns out that the estimated impact of spiking temperatures is worse than previously thought," explains Paul Waidelich, an economist at ETH Zurich who led one of the studies.



The past estimates have mainly looked at rising average temperatures. Now we know we need to consider how our whole climate system is getting more erratic. Possible reasons include the following.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-rainfall-disruptions">Rainfall disruptions</h3>



Climate change is leading to more erratic <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-changing-rainfall-patterns-impact-plants-worldwide/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">rainfall patterns</a>, with some regions experiencing extreme downpours while others face prolonged droughts. 



This disruption is particularly problematic in places not accustomed to heavy rainfall, leading to substantial economic damages.



Unusually <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/seeking-ways-to-prevent-flooding-caused-by-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">heavy rainfall</a> events can overwhelm existing drainage systems, flood roads and buildings, damage crops, and disrupt supply chains.



This can result in significant costs for repairs, lost productivity, and reduced economic activity. The US and China are particularly vulnerable to these damages due to the scale and value of their infrastructure.



The economic losses caused by extreme rainfall events can be immense on a regional and national scale. The reference to the 2021 European floods provides a tangible example of the magnitude of costs that can be incurred.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-economic-toll-of-heat-waves">Economic toll of heat waves</h3>



While the most obvious consequences of heat waves are health-related, the economic impacts of the climate change are often overlooked. However, as temperatures rise globally, the economic consequences of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/record-heat-of-2023-likely-exceeds-that-of-the-last-100000-years/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">heatwaves are escalating</a>.



Extreme heat can cause heat stress, reduce labor productivity across multiple sectors (agriculture, construction, manufacturing), and even lead to temporary business shutdowns. These factors add up to significantly reduced economic output.



Heatwaves increase heat-related illnesses and hospitalizations, straining healthcare systems and diverting economic resources.



Even traditionally cooler countries will face worsening heat extremes as average <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/global-temperature-increase-2023-blew-past-all-climate-models/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">temperatures rise</a>. This means no nation is truly immune to the economic consequences, underscoring global vulnerability to heatwave-induced disruption.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-global-economy-threat">Global economy threat</h2>



"Some people still say that the world cannot afford rapid decarbonization, but the global economy will also suffer from the impacts of climate,” says Sonia Seneviratne, ETH Zurich professor and IPCC expert.



In future, transitioning to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/clean-energy-transition-may-boost-job-opportunities-in-the-u-s/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">clean energy sources</a> and a low-carbon economy requires upfront investments in research, development, and infrastructure upgrades. 



There will be costs associated with developing renewable energy technologies, building new power grids, and potentially replacing existing fossil fuel infrastructure.



Investing in clean energy now, though it comes with upfront costs, is a much wiser financial decision compared to the astronomical burden and human suffering that will result from a warming planet.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-climate-change-injustice-and-economic-losses">Climate change injustice and economic losses</h2>



Climate change isn't just an environmental issue. It's a story of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/humans-have-surpassed-almost-every-safe-limit-to-keep-earth-habitable/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">profound injustice</a>. The nations bearing the least responsibility for causing the climate crisis are the ones projected to suffer the most severe economic consequences.



Many countries near the equator already experience harsh climates and limited resources. Further temperature increases will devastate agriculture, cripple fragile infrastructure, and severely endanger public health in these regions.



Research paints a grim picture. Less-developed nations could see income losses a staggering 60% greater than those experienced by wealthier nations due to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-will-climate-change-impact-the-worlds-natural-capital/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">climate change</a>. This will exacerbate existing global inequality.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-why-the-disparity">Why the disparity?</h2>



Wealthy, industrialized nations fueled their economic growth by emitting massive amounts of greenhouse gases throughout history. This created the climate crisis the world now faces.



On the other hand, poorer countries often cannot afford the infrastructure upgrades, climate-smart technologies, and early warning systems needed to shield their economies and populations from the worst effects of climate change.



“Our study highlights the considerable <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/wealthy-nations-are-making-more-progress-toward-sustainable-development/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">inequity of climate impacts</a>: We find damages almost everywhere, but countries in the tropics will suffer the most because they are already warmer. Further temperature increases will therefore be most harmful there," said says Anders Levermann, Head of Research <a href="https://www.pik-potsdam.de/en/institute/departments/complexity-science/rd4-complexity-science" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Department Complexity Science</a> at the Potsdam Institute and co-author of the study.



"The countries least responsible for climate change, are predicted to suffer income loss that is 60% greater than the higher-income countries and 40% greater than higher-emission countries. They are also the ones with the least resources to adapt to its impacts. It is on us to decide: structural change towards a renewable energy system is needed for our security and will save us money. Staying on the path we are currently on, will lead to catastrophic consequences. The temperature of the planet can only be stabilized if we stop burning oil, gas and coal," Levermann concluded.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-reducing-the-climate-change-economic-impact">Reducing the climate change economic impact</h2>



Having acknowledged the grave implications, two essential actions emerge:



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-cut-emissions-now">Cut emissions, now</h3>



There's no avoiding it – stabilizing the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/el-nino-events-cost-the-global-economy-trillions-of-dollars/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">climate</a> requires phasing out fossil fuels (coal, oil, and gas) and fundamentally transforming how we power our economies and lives. This is a complex but achievable task.



The good news is, renewable energy technologies like solar, wind, and geothermal power, alongside increased energy efficiency measures, provide a blueprint for decarbonization. The technology exists – what's needed is accelerated investment, political will, and widespread adoption



Moreover, swift action is essential. The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (<a href="https://www.ipcc.ch" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">IPCC</a>) clearly states that limiting warming to 1.5ºC demands deep cuts in carbon emissions within this decade. 



Every fraction of a degree of warming avoided translates to significantly reduced economic losses and human suffering.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-support-for-vulnerable-countries">Support for vulnerable countries</h3>



Wealthy nations, who have historically emitted the bulk of greenhouse gases, bear a responsibility to support countries facing the most dire climate consequences. Climate justice demands this.



The obligation of the top polluting nations extends beyond financial aid and includes:



<ul>
<li>Technology transfer: Sharing clean energy technologies and climate-resilient infrastructure solutions.</li>
</ul>



<ul>
<li>Capacity building: Helping less-developed countries strengthen their expertise in climate adaptation planning and disaster risk reduction.</li>
</ul>



<ul>
<li>Loss and damage: Addressing compensation for climate impacts that are unavoidable even with adaptation measures.</li>
</ul>



Support for vulnerable nations isn't just about fairness. Climate-driven instability in the least-developed countries has ripple effects across the globe, affecting trade, migration patterns, and potentially even security. Helping these nations adapt is a form of self-preservation for the international community.



Climate change isn't an off-in-the-future issue. We're already seeing real costs, and they're only going to get worse. The economic consequences are undeniable and hit every corner of the world. The smart choice – the only affordable one – is investing in a clean energy future.



The studies are published in the journals <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41558-024-01990-8" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature Climate Change</a> and <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41586-024-07219-0" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature</a>.



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$38 trillion per year in economic losses expected due to climate change

Climate change is no longer a distant threat. The economic...

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Today&#8217;s Video of the Day from the <a href="https://www.esa.int/">European Space Agency</a> shows the first steps of a project which aims to print human tissue to help injured astronauts heal when they are far away in outer space.
Scientists at the University Hospital of Dresden Technical University bio-printed skin samples using human blood plasma as a bio-ink.
&#8220;Producing the bone sample involved printing human stem cells with a similar bio-ink composition, with the addition of a calcium phosphate bone cement as a structure-supporting material, which is subsequently absorbed during the growth phase,&#8221; explained bioprinting specialist Nieves Cubo.
The team tested their printing method upside down to investigate whether the technique could be used in a low-gravity environment, and it proved to be successful.
 &#8212;
By <a href="http://csexton@earth.com">Chrissy Sexton</a>, <a href="https://www.earth.com/staff/">Earth.com</a> Staff Writer
Video Credit: European Space Agency
&nbsp;

3D printing skin and bone for astronauts