Today's Image of the Day from <a href="https://earthobservatory.nasa.gov/">NASA Earth Observatory</a> features Lake Hamun, a seasonal lake in the Sistan region on the Afghanistan-Iran border. The lake and surrounding wetlands have been shrinking as a result of persistent drought, leading to reduced vegetation and exposed dust. These changes have transformed the basin into a major source of dust storms.



"While dust storms are most common in the summer, they happen year-round as long as the lake is dry and the winds are strong. That was the case on January 12, 2023, when the Visible Infrared Imaging Radiometer Suite (VIIRS) on the NOAA-20 satellite captured this image of dust streaming from the dry lake bed," says NASA.



In January 2023, a team of experts led by UCLA reported that airborne dust has likely increased by 55 percent on a global scale since pre-industrial times. The researchers said this is largely due to more frequent dust storms in Asia and North Africa.&nbsp;



The team estimates that the cooling effect of airborne dust has likely masked about eight percent of the warming caused by greenhouse gases since the preindustrial era.



“Our findings imply that greenhouses gases alone could cause even more climate warming than models currently predict,” said UCLA atmospheric physicist Jasper Kok. “This is of tremendous importance because better predictions can inform better decisions of how to mitigate or adapt to climate change.”



Image Credit: NASA Earth Observatory&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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Lake Hamun is a major source of dust storms

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

Today's Image of the Day from <a href="https://earthobservatory.nasa.gov/">NASA Earth Observatory</a> features Typhoon Mawar, also known as "Betty," which is the first typhoon of the season in the northwest Pacific. The intense storm struck Guam and the Philippines before heading toward Taiwan and southern Japan.



"With sustained winds that reached 295 kilometers (185 miles) per hour on May 25, the super typhoon grew to be one of the strongest May storms on record," says NASA.&nbsp;



"The Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS) on NASA’s Aqua satellite acquired this natural-color image of Mawar at 05:20 Universal Time on May 30, 2023. Though the storm appeared to be bearing down on Taiwan, it was in the process of turning north and away from the island."



"After rapidly intensifying between May 24 and 25, Mawar then weakened significantly as it encountered cooler water temperatures and less favorable wind shear conditions as it neared Taiwan."



NASA reports that although Mawar did not strike the Philippines or Taiwan directly, the outer bands of the storm brought heavy rains to northern Luzon and rough seas to the eastern coast of Taiwan.



Image Credit: NASA Earth Observatory&nbsp;



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Typhoon Mawar is one of the strongest May storms on record

Today's Image of the Day from <a href="https://earthobservatory.nasa.gov/">NASA Earth Observatory</a> features the Messina Strait, a channel in the Mediterranean Sea that separates Sicily and Calabria. The photograph was captured by an astronaut onboard the International Space Station



The Messina Strait is 20 miles long with a depth of 820 feet, and joins the Tyrrhenian Sea to the north and the Ionian Sea to the south.&nbsp;



"Waves that follow the tide from west to east are visible in the right half of the photo. These are caused by internal waves, a process where stratified water layers of changing density and increasing depth horizontally propagate beneath the water surface. The waves are illuminated by sunglint—an optical phenomenon that occurs when sunlight is directly reflected off the water and into a satellite’s sensor, or in this case, the astronaut’s camera," explains NASA.



"Alternating currents, relatively low water temperature, and high levels of phosphorus and nitrogen contribute to the region’s aquatic biodiversity. The strait hosts several deep-sea fish species such as Sloane’s viperfish (a predatory dragonfish) as well as commercially valuable fish like yellowtail and snapper. On the left side of the image, thin, white lines are likely ship wakes, some of which may belong to fishing boats."



Image Credit: NASA Earth Observatory&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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Messina Strait in the Mediterranean Sea

Today's Image of the Day from <a href="https://earthobservatory.nasa.gov/">NASA Earth Observatory</a> features an astronaut photograph of the Amazon River in Brazil. This particular stretch of river is located near the port city of Parintins.



"The river is the largest on Earth and allows seagoing ships to reach Parintins even though it is 800 kilometers (500 miles) inland from the Atlantic Ocean," says NASA.



"Seagoing ships can progress 3,600 kilometers (2,200 miles) up the Amazon River - more than halfway across the South American continent - to the port of Iquitos in Peru."&nbsp;



The muddy color of the river is tied to the Andes Mountains, a major source of sediments and mineral nutrients. According to NASA, the sediment erodes from the Andes Mountains located to the west and is carried generally eastward toward the ocean.&nbsp;



Image Credit: NASA Earth Observatory&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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The lower Amazon River in Brazil

Today's Image of the Day from <a href="https://earthobservatory.nasa.gov/">NASA Earth Observatory</a> features an astronaut photograph of the Espíritu Santo Archipelago, a group of islands located in the Gulf of California, also known as the Sea of Cortez, off the eastern coast of the Baja California Peninsula in Mexico.&nbsp;



"Sunglint reflects off the water surface, accentuating wave movement, ship wakes, and cloud shadows," said NASA. "The islands appear rust-colored due to previous tectonic and volcanic activity that deposited layers of black lava and pink volcanic ash."



"The Baja Peninsula acts as a natural wind and wave break that protects islands in the Gulf of California from erosion. Slowed erosion has resulted in the preservation of rock shelters and caves."



"Exploration and excavation of these shelters contribute to understanding the geomorphology, geology, and ancient human patterns on the islands. Archeologists have found human artifacts artifacts dating back approximately ten thousand years, providing evidence of human activity on the islands."



The Espíritu Santo Archipelago is part of the Mexican state of Baja California Sur and consists of several islands, the largest and most well-known of which is Isla Espíritu Santo. The other main islands in the archipelago are Isla Partida, Los Islotes, and a few smaller islets.



Espíritu Santo and its surrounding islands are known for their stunning natural beauty, featuring dramatic cliffs, white sand beaches, and turquoise waters. The region is home to a rich diversity of marine life, including sea lions, manta rays, whale sharks, and various species of whales and dolphins. It also supports a variety of bird species, such as blue-footed boobies, frigatebirds, and pelicans, making it a popular destination for birdwatching.



The Espíritu Santo Archipelago has been designated a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve and a Mexican Protected Natural Area, which helps to preserve its unique ecosystems and biodiversity. Ecotourism is popular in the area, with visitors participating in activities like snorkeling, scuba diving, kayaking, and wildlife watching.



The islands are accessible by boat from the nearby city of La Paz, which is the capital of Baja California Sur. There are numerous tour operators that offer day trips and multi-day excursions to the Espíritu Santo Archipelago, allowing visitors to explore the islands and their remarkable natural features.



Image Credit: NASA Earth Observatory&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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Espíritu Santo Archipelago in the Gulf of California

Fentanyl, a common drug that has already become the leading cause of death for Americans under the age of 50, has the potential to be transformed into a tool for mass poisoning, health experts warn. This lethal capacity could turn it into a weapon of terror, suggests a group of researchers including experts from <a href="https://www.rutgers.edu/">Rutgers</a> and other institutions.



In a recently published paper in <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.3389/fpubh.2023.1158479">Frontiers in Public Health</a>, Lewis Nelson, the chair of the Department of Emergency Medicine at Rutgers New Jersey Medical School, spoke about this looming threat. Nelson, who is also the senior author of the research paper, expressed concern about the ready availability of this deadly substance.&nbsp;



"Before fentanyl, the only viable mass poisons were rare and difficult-to-access agents such as cyanide or nerve agents,” he said. Nelson highlighted the drug's lethal potential, saying, “Fentanyl can be just as deadly if properly disseminated, and it’s ubiquitous. A motivated person could readily obtain enough to potentially poison hundreds of people - which, uncut, would fit easily onto a teaspoon.”



<h2 id="h-different-type-of-threat-than-biological-attack">Different type of threat than biological attack</h2>



Fentanyl's threat is different from that of a biological attack, which could spread globally, potentially claiming millions of lives. In contrast, chemical attacks like fentanyl poisoning harm only those directly exposed. Nevertheless, due to its high toxicity, fentanyl poses a grave threat as an instrument for a destructive, deliberate event aimed at an unsuspecting population.



In terms of the execution of such an attack, an individual with minimum technical skills could potentially introduce lethal doses of the synthetic opioid into building ventilation systems, or local food and water supplies.&nbsp;



Nelson, however, downplayed the likelihood of a successful large-scale attack, asserting that merely dumping a large quantity of fentanyl into a reservoir would likely not result in significant casualties.



A chilling historical example of its potential usage as an aerosolized poison comes from Russia in 2002. Chechen terrorists had seized a crowded theater, threatening to execute hundreds of hostages unless Russia withdrew from Chechnya.&nbsp;



In response, Russian authorities apparently used a fentanyl-like drug to end the crisis. They pumped the fentanyl analog into the theater’s ventilation system, incapacitating nearly everyone inside, including the terrorists.&nbsp;



The authorities then stormed the building and rescued the hostages, but not without a hefty price: the operation resulted in the death of 130 hostages, a grim demonstration of the destructive power of fentanyl when used maliciously.



<h2 id="h-effective-antidotes-currently-available">Effective antidotes currently available</h2>



Yet, there is some silver lining in the form of an effective antidote to fentanyl poisoning. Nelson pointed out, “We have no effective antidotes to many poisons, but we do have an antidote to fentanyl poisoning - naloxone, which also goes by the brand name Narcan."&nbsp;



Owing to the increasing number of unintentional fentanyl overdoses, naloxone is now widely stocked in healthcare facilities and pharmacies.



This unfortunate increase in accidental overdoses has led to an increased awareness among healthcare providers and non-medical personnel about recognizing the signs of fentanyl poisoning. The research paper urges more training for caregivers in order to quickly identify victims and administer naloxone as soon as possible.



Nelson underlined the safety of this approach, saying, “Treating based on clinical findings rather than more definitive tests such as blood-test results is generally safe. If you suspect fentanyl poisoning, administer naloxone, and it turns out the poison was another agent, you generally haven’t hurt the patient.”



<h2 id="h-outline-proposed-for-a-fentanyl-attack-response-plan">Outline proposed for a fentanyl attack response plan</h2>



The response plan proposed by the panel primarily focuses on preparatory measures, such as training more individuals to recognize the signs of poisoning, setting up efficient reporting channels for unusual fentanyl poisoning cases, and identifying common factors among victims.&nbsp;



In addition, the plan also calls for enhanced efforts to eliminate access to fentanyl sources. A crucial part of the strategy includes devising ways to swiftly transport substantial quantities of naloxone to places where they are most needed during an emergency.



The availability of naloxone in both metropolitan and rural areas is encouraging, according to Nelson. "We have a lot of naloxone available in metropolitan and rural areas,” he said.&nbsp;



The drug can safely be administered to victims, as fentanyl powder poses little threat to rescuers unless it's inhaled or ingested. There's essentially no risk of rapid absorption through the skin, he reassured.



One of the primary challenges in the event of a mass poisoning incident would be transporting the antidote swiftly to the scene or facilities suddenly overwhelmed with victims.&nbsp;



"The key in a mass event will be quickly moving naloxone to the scene or to facilities that are suddenly overwhelmed with victims. Fentanyl generally kills more slowly than poisons like cyanide, but it still requires quick action to prevent harm," explained Nelson.



While the prospect of fentanyl being weaponized is a disturbing one, health experts are working diligently to prepare and protect against such a potential event. As the medical community continues to learn from accidental overdose cases, their knowledge and readiness could prove invaluable in responding to an intentional mass poisoning event.



<h2 id="h-more-about-fentanyl">More about fentanyl</h2>



Fentanyl is a synthetic opioid pain reliever that is 50 to 100 times more potent than morphine. It's approved for treating severe pain, typically advanced cancer <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/study-reveals-body-positions-that-indicate-your-dog-is-in-pain/">pain</a>. It's often prescribed in the form of transdermal patches or lozenges, and is used under a doctor's supervision.



However, due to its potency, fentanyl has also been illicitly produced and misused, often with deadly consequences. Illicitly made fentanyl is sold through illegal drug markets for its heroin-like effect. It's often mixed with heroin and/or cocaine to increase its potency, but users are frequently unaware of its presence, leading to a high risk of overdose.



Fentanyl binds to the body's opioid receptors that control pain and emotions, increasing dopamine levels and creating a state of intense euphoria and relaxation. Its potency comes from its high affinity to these receptors. However, it also affects the areas of the brain that control breathing rate, and a high dose of opioids, especially potent ones like fentanyl, can cause breathing to stop completely, leading to death.



Fentanyl overdoses have been a significant contributor to the opioid epidemic in the United States. By 2021, fentanyl was the leading cause of drug overdose deaths in the U.S., and its potential misuse continues to pose significant public health risks.



In terms of medical use, fentanyl can be a very effective drug for managing severe pain. As mentioned earlier, it's often used for pain management in cancer patients, especially those who have built up a tolerance to other opioids.



Overall, while fentanyl has legitimate medical uses, its potency and potential for misuse make it a significant focus of public health efforts to control the opioid crisis.



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Fentanyl can easily be weaponized, nation needs emergency response plan

Fentanyl, a common drug that has already become the leading...

In a groundbreaking investigation, scientists have delved deep into the genomes of 233 nonhuman primate species, casting new light on primate evolution, human <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/predicting-disease-transmission-between-wildlife-and-humans/">disease</a>, and biodiversity conservation.&nbsp;



The multinational research endeavor, led by the Human Genome Sequencing Center at <a href="https://www.bcm.edu/">Baylor College of Medicine</a>, the Institute of Evolutionary Biology, Pompeu Fabra University in Barcelona, Spain, and Illumina, Inc., generated a trove of new information. The experts have now published their findings in a series of studies in a special issue of the scientific journal <a href="https://www.science.org/">Science</a>.



<h2 id="h-nearly-half-of-all-primates-represented">Nearly half of all primates represented</h2>



This initiative, known as the <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8920853/">Primate Genome Project</a>, resulted in the most comprehensive collection of primate genomic information to date. Nearly half of all primate species on Earth are represented within this catalog. Over 800 individual primates from these 233 species were studied by researchers hailing from 24 countries. A staggering 4.3 million common missense mutations were identified in this process.



These studies uncovered previously unknown DNA sequence variants and created phylogenies - essentially family trees - for primate species. This wealth of data enriches our understanding of primate and human evolution and expands our knowledge of primate biodiversity.&nbsp;



Moreover, the research team mined the primate genomic data to uncover new insights into the genetic roots of human disease. A novel algorithm was also developed to predict pathogenic variants in humans.



Dr. Jeffrey Rogers, lead investigator and associate professor at the Human Genome Sequencing Center at Baylor, emphasized the significance of these findings. "The simultaneous publication of this broad array of papers on primate genomics demonstrates the value and the power of comparative genetics. When we investigate the genomics of nonhuman primates, we not only learn about these species, which is important and timely, but we can also place human genetics into its proper comparative context, which provides new insights into human health and human evolution."



<h2 id="h-varying-genetic-diversity">Varying genetic diversity</h2>



Genetic diversity among primates varies significantly across geographical regions and taxonomies, as noted by Dr. Tomàs Marquès-Bonet, lead investigator from Pompeu Fabra. "The study of this diversity is crucial for human evolutionary studies, human disease and for their future conservation."



The urgency of conservation efforts is underscored by the findings, which highlight which primate species are in the most desperate need. Dr. Lukas Kuderna, lead investigator from the Institute of Evolutionary Biology, commented, “Our studies show which species are in most dire need of conservation efforts and can help identify the most effective strategies for preserving these species."



One particular study in the consortium turned the spotlight onto baboons. Utilizing whole genome sequence data from 225 baboons, researchers discovered new geographic sites of gene flow between different populations.&nbsp;



The research revealed that yellow baboons from western Tanzania are the first nonhuman primates known to have received genetic input from three distinct lineages. This discovery prompts us to reconsider the evolutionary dynamics of early hominins, which may be far more complex than previously assumed.



"These results suggest that the population genetic structure and history of introgression among baboon lineages is more complex than was previously thought, and that shows that the baboons are a good model for the evolution of humans, Neanderthals and Denisovans," Rogers said.



<h2 id="h-predicting-human-disease-through-primate-mutations">Predicting human disease through primate mutations</h2>



The team also looked at how primate mutations can be used to predict the risk of human disease. Out of the 4.3 million missense mutations identified in the primates studied, researchers found 6% to be likely benign in human disease, as their high frequency in primate populations seems to be benign.&nbsp;



In the other 94% of cases, the PrimateAI-3D deep learning algorithm was deployed to predict pathogenicity in human disease. This artificial intelligence algorithm was developed by the team at Illumina.



Dr. Kyle Farh, lead investigator from Illumina, shed light on the findings, saying, “We discovered that if a ‘rare’ mutation cannot be found in the primate genome, it is very likely to cause a human disease. In addition, some of these rare mutations can cause, by themselves, some diseases considered polygenic.”



<h2 id="h-significant-contribution-to-science-and-the-world">Significant contribution to science and the world</h2>



The newfound genomic catalog significantly impacts our understanding of genetic evolution (see image <a href="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/Primate-genome-project_credit-Dong-Dong-Wu.png">here</a>). The number of genomic innovations previously thought to be exclusively human has been cut in half by the findings from these studies. This enables easier identification of mutations not shared with primates, which may be unique to human evolution and the characteristics that set us apart as a species.



Dr. Richard Gibbs, founding director of the Human Genome Sequencing Center and Wofford Cain Chair and Professor of Molecular and Human Genetics at Baylor, praised the series of studies. “These studies bring comparative genomics to new heights, and we can predict the impact on both understanding of human biology and on practical clinical diagnostic issues," said Dr. Gibbs.



<h2 id="h-more-about-genome-sequencing">More about genome sequencing</h2>



Genome sequencing is a laboratory process that determines the complete DNA sequence of an organism's genome at a single time. This complex task involves sequencing all of an organism's chromosomal DNA as well as DNA contained in the mitochondria and, for plants, in the chloroplast.



The Human Genome Project, completed in 2003, marked the successful execution of the first full sequencing of the human genome. This ambitious international research effort began in 1990, aiming to map and understand all the genes of human beings. All our genes together are known as our "genome."



In genome sequencing, the precise order of the four chemical building blocks - adenine, guanine, cytosine, and thymine - that make up the DNA molecule is determined. The human genome, for instance, contains about 3 billion of these base pairs, which reside in the 23 pairs of chromosomes within the nucleus of all our cells.



Modern sequencing technology, known as next-generation sequencing (NGS), allows for sequencing multiple DNA strands in parallel, resulting in huge amounts of data generated quickly and at a lower cost than traditional methods. These technological advancements have allowed genomics to become a significant tool in biological research, medical diagnostics, evolutionary studies, and many other fields.



There are a few different methods for sequencing genomes. Sequencing by synthesis, for example, involves synthesizing a complementary strand of DNA based on the sequence of the original strand. Another common method, called nanopore sequencing, pushes a DNA strand through a tiny pore and reads the sequence based on changes in electrical conductivity.



Genome sequencing can have numerous applications. It can be used to study genetic diseases, trace ancestry, understand and combat hereditary disorders, guide personalized medicine, and even in fields like forensic science. It has helped to uncover numerous genetic variants responsible for certain diseases, track the evolution of different species, and has been a cornerstone in understanding our own human biology and health.



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The Primate Genome Project reveals hidden evolutionary secrets

In a groundbreaking investigation, scientists have delved deep into the...

Tree,In,Two,With,Very,Different,Environments,Earth,Day,Or

In the face of growing concerns about the planet's sustainability, a group of more than 40 international scientists, under the banner of the <a href="https://earthcommission.org/">Earth Commission</a>, have presented alarming findings. The study suggests that humans have surpassed almost all the protective boundaries that ensure Earth remains a safe and habitable environment.&nbsp;



The research points towards the grim reality that we, as a species, are propelling our planet towards irreversible destabilization due to unsustainable resource extraction and consumption.



<h2 id="h-safe-and-just-limits">Safe and just limits</h2>



The research, published in the prominent scientific journal <a href="https://www.nature.com/">Nature</a>, involved a meticulous analysis of multiple facets of our environment such as climate, biodiversity, freshwater, and diverse forms of pollution affecting our air, soil, and water. The scientists set out to define "safe and just limits," parameters that work towards maintaining the planet's equilibrium, protecting other species, minimizing significant harm to humans, and fostering inclusive human development.



Of the eight <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41586-023-06083-8">Earth System Boundaries</a> (ESBs) recognized in this study, the researchers found that we have crossed seven, with only aerosol pollutants staying within tolerable limits. The team reported that we have gone beyond the just limit of 1°C in terms of climate change, although we are still within the safe limit of 1.5°C above the pre-industrial global average temperature.



The human cost of these transgressions is already being observed, the scientists warn. The changing climate has affected tens of millions of people, revealing "significant societal impacts."



<h3 id="h-irreversible-tipping-points-may-be-unavoidable">Irreversible tipping points may be "unavoidable"</h3>



Professor Johan Rockstrom of the <a href="https://www.pik-potsdam.de/en/home">Potsdam Institute for Climate Impact Research</a>, who led this extensive study, expressed deep concern over the findings. He stated: "The results of our health check are quite concerning. Within the five analyzed domains, several boundaries, on a global and local scale, are already transgressed."



"This means that unless a timely transformation occurs, it is most likely that irreversible tipping points and widespread impacts on human well-being will be unavoidable." He further emphasized the necessity to avoid this grim scenario to ensure a safe and just future for current and future generations.



<h3 id="h-action-is-urgently-needed">Action is urgently needed</h3>



Despite the agreement among UN member states since 2015 to limit global temperature rise to 1.5°C and protect biodiversity in 30% of the world's land, sea, and freshwater areas, the Earth Commission scientists indicate we are far from achieving these targets. They argue for a sweeping global transformation across all ESBs to ensure human well-being.



This transformation, they suggest, should not be isolated but systemic, addressing the economic, technological, and political drivers of Earth's degradation. Additionally, it should promote equitable access for the impoverished through the reduction and reallocation of resource use.



Study co-author Professor Joyeeta Gupta from the <a href="https://www.uva.nl/en">University of Amsterdam</a> emphasized the essential role of justice in humanity's survival within planetary limits.&nbsp;



"Justice is a necessity for humanity to live within planetary limits. This is a conclusion seen across the scientific community in multiple heavyweight environmental assessments," said Professor Gupta.



"It is not a political choice. Overwhelming evidence shows that a just and equitable approach is essential to planetary stability. We cannot have a biophysically safe planet without justice."



<h2 id="h-mitigating-the-damage">Mitigating the damage</h2>



The scientists aim for their research to guide businesses, cities, and governments in setting science-based targets when tackling issues such as human exposure to climate change, biodiversity decline, water shortages, ecosystem damage due to fertiliser overuse along with unequal access, and health damage from air pollution.



Professor Gupta warned of the immediate risks beyond potential future tipping points. "Damage is already happening to millions of people at 1°C of climate warming." She also emphasized the need for immediate action to phase out fossil fuels and accelerate work towards meeting Paris Agreement goals.&nbsp;



"By setting our climate Earth System Boundary at 1C we are not advocating that the world should adopt this ambitious target, but we are exposing the injustice inherent in current world targets," said Professor Gupta.



<h2 id="h-more-about-climate-tipping-points">More about climate tipping points</h2>



Climate tipping points represent a threshold in the earth's climate system, beyond which a small change in human activity can have significant, and sometimes irreversible, effects on the climate. The term "tipping point" refers to the idea that once these boundaries are crossed, the changes become self-sustaining, and potentially lead to a new, often less hospitable, state.



<h3 id="h-melting-ice-caps">Melting ice caps</h3>



One of the most well-known potential tipping points is the melting of the polar ice caps. Ice is white and highly reflective, meaning it reflects much of the sun's heat back into space. As the ice melts due to increasing global temperatures, it leaves behind darker water or land, which absorbs more heat, which in turn causes more melting. This is known as a positive feedback loop, and it can lead to runaway ice melt.



<h3 id="h-permafrost">Permafrost&nbsp;</h3>



Another potential tipping point involves the release of methane from permafrost. Permafrost is frozen soil that contains large amounts of carbon in the form of organic material. When permafrost thaws due to rising temperatures, microbes in the soil decompose the organic material, releasing methane, a potent greenhouse gas, into the atmosphere. This leads to more warming, more thawing, and more methane release, creating another positive feedback loop.



Climate tipping points are a topic of ongoing scientific research, and there is still much uncertainty about when these thresholds might be reached, or what the exact consequences would be. However, the consensus among scientists is that crossing these thresholds could lead to serious and potentially catastrophic changes to the earth's climate system.



The concern of scientists is that these tipping points might be reached sooner than we expect, particularly if greenhouse gas emissions continue at their current rate. That's why researchers like those from the Earth Commission are advocating for urgent action to mitigate the effects of climate change and prevent these tipping points from being reached.



—-



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Humans have surpassed almost every safe limit to keep Earth habitable

In the face of growing concerns about the planet's sustainability,...

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The Vatnajökull ice cap in southeast Iceland Today&#8217;s Video of the Day from the <a href="https://www.esa.int/">European Space Agency</a> features a Copernicus Sentinel-2 view of the Vatnajökull ice cap in southeast Iceland.
Vatnajökull is the biggest glacier in Europe, covering an area of more than 3,200 square miles. 
The ice cap has about 30 outlet glaciers, many of which are shrinking as a result of rising temperatures. One of these glaciers, Vatnajökull, is positioned over some of the most active volcanoes in Iceland such as Bárðarbunga and Grímsvötn.
On the southern side of Vatnajökull, the Jökulsárlón glacial lake has grown to become Iceland&#8217;s deepest lake. Because it connects with the ocean, the lake contains both seawater and freshwater. 
The island was governed as an independent commonwealth under the Althing, therefore being  of the world&#8217;s oldest functioning legislative assemblies. Also there is  a period of civil strife, Iceland acceded to Norwegian rule in the 13th century. The establishment of the Kalmar Union in 1397 united the kingdoms of Norway, Denmark, and Sweden. Iceland also followed Norway&#8217;s integration into that union, coming under Danish rule after Sweden&#8217;s secession from the union in 1523.  The capital and largest city is Reykjavík
Video Credit: ESA  
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By <a href="http://csexton@earth.com">Chrissy Sexton</a>, <a href="https://www.earth.com/staff/">Earth.com</a> Staff Writer