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As cities face rising temperatures amplified by urban structures like concrete and asphalt, initiatives to plant trees have gained momentum. Yet, while the benefits of city greening are well-recognized, many such efforts have been based on approximations. 



A recent study published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1073/pnas.2401210121" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences</a> provides a refined tool to help urban planners set specific and scientifically sound city-wide greening targets.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-cooling-effects-of-city-greening">Cooling effects of city greening</h2>



Led by researchers Jia Wang, Weiqi Zhou, and Yuguo Qian from the <a href="https://english.cas.cn/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Chinese Academy of Sciences</a>, and co-authored by Steward Pickett, an urban ecologist at <a href="https://www.caryinstitute.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Cary Institute of Ecosystem Studies</a>, the study examines the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/cloud-engineering-can-temporarily-cool-our-planet/">cooling</a> effects of urban trees at different scales.



“Trees offer many benefits to cities, and cooling is one of them,” said Pickett. “Trees are good at cooling because they pump a lot of water from the ground into the air, and when that water evaporates at the leaf surface, it absorbs a vast amount of heat. That's just the physics of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/light-can-vaporize-water-cause-evaporation-without-heat/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">evaporation</a>. The shade provided by trees also helps with cooling.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-many-trees-are-needed">How many trees are needed?</h2>



Most research on the cooling effect of trees has historically focused on specific neighborhoods or streets. For instance, studies have shown that a 1% increase in tree canopy can lower nearby temperatures by 0.04 to 0.57 degrees Celsius.&nbsp;



“That’s valuable, but planners and decision makers are thinking about the whole city. They’re asking, ‘How much tree canopy do we need for the whole city? What happens when we scale it up?’ And that information hasn’t been available,” Pickett said.



The goal of the study was to assess if findings from smaller areas could be applied at a city-wide level.&nbsp;



The researchers analyzed satellite imagery and temperature data from four cities with varying climates: Beijing and Shenzhen in China, and Baltimore and Sacramento in the United States. These cities represented different climate zones: temperate, subtropical, and Mediterranean.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-measuring-the-cooling-effects-of-urban-trees">Measuring the cooling effects of urban trees</h2>



The team divided each city into pixelated sections approximately the size of a city block. For each pixel, they assessed land surface temperatures and tree coverage.&nbsp;



The researchers then expanded their analysis to larger areas, such as neighborhoods and entire cities, to measure how the cooling efficiency - temperature reduction associated with a 1% increase in tree canopy - shifted with scale.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-city-greening-to-enhance-cooling">City greening to enhance cooling</h2>



The results revealed that the cooling effect of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/urban-trees-surrounded-by-less-asphalt-grow-taller-and-stronger/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">urban trees</a> increased as the scale expanded, but the rate of increase was slower at larger scales. 



In Beijing, for instance, a 1% increase in tree canopy at the block level led to a temperature drop of 0.06 degrees.&nbsp;



However, at the city-wide level, the same increase resulted in a reduction of about 0.18 degrees. The added benefit at larger scales likely comes from larger groups of trees, which collectively enhance cooling.



“We found that cooling efficiency follows a power law across scales - from as small as 120 by 120 meters to as large as regions covering the entire city,” said co-author Weiqi Zhou.&nbsp;



“The relationship holds across all four of the studied cities, which are in very different climates. This suggests that it could be used to predict the amount of additional tree cover needed to achieve specific <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/unbearable-heat-could-make-some-parts-of-the-world-uninhabitable/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">heat</a> mitigation and climate adaptation goals in cities worldwide.”



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



The study’s findings offer urban planners a powerful tool to establish city-wide tree canopy targets aimed at combating extreme heat.&nbsp;



For instance, the researchers estimated that Baltimore could lower land surface temperatures by 0.23°C by increasing its tree canopy by 1%. To achieve a reduction of 1.5°C, the city would need to increase tree coverage by 6.39%.



While this information is invaluable for high-level decision-making, Pickett cautioned that it’s not a one-size-fits-all solution.&nbsp;



“This paper doesn’t tell you where to put the trees,” he said. “That's another sort of analysis, which would have to involve a lot more social information and engagement with communities or with individual property owners.”&nbsp;



Ensuring equitable distribution of trees across cities and involving communities in planning are essential for maximizing the benefits.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-strategic-planning-for-city-greening-nbsp">Strategic planning for city greening&nbsp;</h2>



Pickett suggested expanding the research to include cities with different climate types to better understand the broader applicability of these findings.&nbsp;



Additionally, studying how effective <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/planting-too-many-trees-could-spoil-the-planet/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">tree planting</a> will be in future conditions as climate change drives higher temperatures and more frequent droughts is a crucial next step.



The study reinforces the idea that tree-planting, while an effective nature-based solution, requires strategic planning to yield the best results.&nbsp;



With these new insights, cities can move beyond trial and error to make more informed decisions that address the urban heat crisis.



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City greening: Predicting the cooling effects of trees

As cities face rising temperatures amplified by urban structures like...

An international team of scientists, from the eastern shores of United States to the southern tip of Italy, has stumbled upon an exciting discovery - a new strain of cyanobacteria called Chonkus that thrives on carbon dioxide (CO2) and effortlessly settles in water.



This unique alga, affectionately called Chonkus, has been discovered off the Sicilian island of Vulcano, where marine <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/plants-absorb-31-more-co2-than-previously-estimated/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">CO2</a> is plentiful thanks to shallow volcanic vents.



The team was intrigued by the idea of what happens when regular CO2 limitations are removed, an environment in which organisms might have the potential to amplify their growth. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-algae-thriving-in-carbon-rich-environments">Algae thriving in carbon-rich environments</h2>



Dr. Max Schubert was a staff scientist at the <a href="https://wyss.harvard.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Wyss Institute at Harvard University</a> when the research was conducted and is now lead project scientist at Align to Innovate.



"Dissolved carbon is relatively dilute compared to all the other molecules in the ocean, and that limits the growth of photosynthetic organisms that live there," noted Dr. Schubert. 



"We decided to investigate what happens when you alleviate that limiting factor by going to a place with plenty of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/planting-diverse-crops-traps-carbon-and-boosts-soil-health/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">carbon</a>, where some organisms could have evolved the ability to use it to galvanize their growth." 



However, the team uncovered an organism that defied this limitation. Dr. Schubert believes that Chonkus has exciting features that could be beneficial to humans.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-bringing-the-ocean-to-the-lab">Bringing the ocean to the lab</h2>



The story began nine years ago when Dr. Schubert and Dr. Braden Tierney shared a lab at Harvard Medical School (<a href="https://hms.harvard.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">HMS</a>) under the guidance of Dr. George Church. 



Focused on creating tools for directed evolution of bacteria, Dr. Schubert expanded his research. In 2019, he won a proposal at the HMS Consortium for Space Genetics' Symposium on Climate Change, allowing him to explore cyanobacteria.



Meanwhile, Dr. Tierney had his sights set on exploring microbes living in shallow seeps. He partnered with scientists at the University of Palermo in Sicily and drew upon Dr. Schubert's expertise to understand the cyanobacteria.



What followed was an expedition that brought together a motley crew of scientists from institutions ranging from the Wyss Institute, HMS, and MIT to the National Renewable Energy Laboratory in Colorado, along with multiple Italian establishments.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-sea-of-possibilities">A sea of possibilities</h2>



Venturing into the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/capturing-carbon-directly-from-the-air-is-now-much-more-efficient-thanks-to-new-material/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">CO2</a>-rich waters off the coast of Vulcano, the team collected water samples that were then shipped to Boston. Here, Dr. Schubert and his team isolated and studied the microorganisms living within.



The journey started by recreating an environment that would allow cyanobacteria to flourish – plenty of light, warmth, and CO2. 



The outcome? Two strains of fast-growing cyanobacteria: UTEX 3221 and UTEX 3222. Chonkus, formally known as UTEX 3222, was selected due to its single-celled growth, making it easier to compare with existing strains.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-using-algae-to-sequester-carbon">Using algae to sequester carbon </h2>



Chonkus possesses several interesting traits, including carbon-rich storage granules within its cells, large colonies, higher carbon content, and - most notably - a natural tendency to sink fast in water.



"Many of the traits that we observed in Chonkus aren't inherently useful in their natural environment, but are very useful to humans," said Dr. Tierney.



"Aquatic organisms naturally grow at very low density, but being able to grow to a high density at higher temperatures is very helpful in the industrial environments that we use to manufacture many goods and products, and can help sequester more carbon."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-potential-beyond-carbon-sequestration">Potential beyond carbon sequestration </h2>



The team is excited about the potential applications of the algae beyond carbon sequestration. Due to its rapid and dense growth pattern, Chonkus could be used to more efficiently produce commodities like omega-3 fatty acids, the antioxidant astaxanthin, and spirulina.



By harnessing the ability of cyanobacteria to absorb <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/warming-soils-release-more-carbon-than-plants-can-replace/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">carbon</a> from their surroundings, the processes of carbon sequestration and biomanufacturing could be seamlessly linked.



The research has led to the founding of a non-profit organization called The Two Frontiers Project, which aims to study how life thrives in extreme environments and to explore potential applications in carbon capture, CO2 upcycling for sustainable products, and coral ecosystem restoration.



Dr. Church commends the potential of such naturally evolved cyanobacteria strains and stresses the importance of maintaining control over these experiments.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-significance-of-the-study">Significance of the study</h2>



Taking a cue from nature seems to be at the heart of remarkable innovation. Dr. Don Ingber, the founding director of the Wyss Institute, underlines this sentiment.



"I'm proud of this team for getting out of the lab and seeking nature's best ideas where they've already developed," said Dr. Ingber.



"This is a wonderful example of how our new Sustainable Futures Initiative is pursuing out-of-the-box approaches to confront climate change - the biggest challenge of our generation." 



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://journals.asm.org/doi/10.1128/aem.00841-24" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Applied and Environmental Microbiology</a>.



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Can algae soak up loads of carbon to help save the planet?

An international team of scientists, from the eastern shores of...

Did you think only adults factor in possibilities and probabilities in their daily lives? Think again. According to recent findings, toddlers as young as two and three years old have an innate understanding of how possibilities work, enabling them to learn from surprising events.



Toddlers can distinguish between events that are impossible, those that are possible but not probable, and their excitement for the impossible is profound.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-toddlers-learning-possibilities">Toddlers learning possibilities</h2>



As adults, we consider possibilities and probabilities every single day. Ever thought about your chances of winning the lottery after buying a ticket? Or packed an umbrella because there might be a chance of rain? 



A recent study suggests that toddlers might also be part of the possibility gang, even before they have the language to describe these mental states. The findings are the first to demonstrate this phenomenon.



“Even young toddlers already think about the world in terms of possibilities,” said co-author&nbsp;<a href="https://pbs.jhu.edu/directory/lisa-feigenson/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Lisa Feigenson</a>, co-director of the Johns Hopkins University <a href="https://labforchilddevelopment.com" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Laboratory for Child Development</a>. 



“Adults do this all the time and here we wanted to know whether even <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/toddlers-get-half-their-calories-from-ultra-processed-foods/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">toddlers</a> think about possible states of the world before they’ve had years of experience and before they have the language to describe these mental states.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-when-the-unexpected-happens">When the unexpected happens</h2>



A group of two- and three-year-olds were shown a gumball-type machine filled with toys. Some kids saw a blend of pink and purple toys, while others saw that the machine was filled only with purple toys. Each <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/children-under-two-should-not-be-exposed-to-tv-or-screen-time/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">child</a> then got a coin to drop into the machine to draw a toy.



Some children who saw the machine filled with only purple toys drew out a pink toy. This, of course, defies logic, because how could they possibly draw a pink toy from a machine offering solely purple ones?



Now, after they received their toys, all the kids were taught the name of the toy - a made-up word - and asked to recall the name later.



The results were astonishing. Kids who experienced this "impossible" scenario learned the name significantly better than the rest.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-toddler-learning-patterns">Toddler learning patterns</h2>



The researchers believe that encountering impossible events spurs toddlers to seek explanations, boosting their learning.



“One possibility was that they would learn well from the improbable events, but even better from the impossible events,” said <a href="https://hss.tcnj.edu/hss-faculty/aimee-stahl/">Aimee Stahl</a>, a former doctoral student in Feigenson’s lab who is now an associate professor of psychology at <a href="https://tcnj.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">The College of New Jersey</a>.



“But what we found was that they actually don’t learn from the unlikely, improbable events. They only learn if they experienced the impossible event.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-new-approach-to-education">New approach to education</h2>



This discovery opens up incredible possibilities for educators and parents, enabling them to create learning strategies centered around these "heightened moments."



Feigenson suggests that parents and teachers should design opportunities for children to ponder over intriguing concepts, thereby creating powerful learning moments.



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



The implications of these findings on cognitive development are profound. They challenge the existing perception of early childhood learning, suggesting that even preverbal children are capable of engaging with complex <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/toddler-screen-time-linked-to-atypical-sensory-behaviors/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cognitive processes</a>. 



The fact that toddlers can comprehend and respond to improbable events implies that their minds are ripe for a more advanced learning than previously appreciated. 



This challenges educators and developmental psychologists to reconsider the scope of educational materials suitable for young learners. 



By integrating scenarios that defy expectations, educational content can harness this innate curiosity, potentially accelerating cognitive growth during formative years.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-developing-through-surprises">Developing through surprises</h2>



Going deeper into the science, this phenomenon can be tied to broader theories of cognitive development. The work of Jean Piaget, long regarded as foundational, suggested that children's mental models evolve through interaction with the world, constantly being tested against new experiences. 



The discovery by Feigenson and Stahl hints at a burgeoning field of study focusing on 'possibility thinking' - a concept where children learn by assessing the bounds of reality through trial and error.



This challenges scientists to further investigate how early exposure to "impossible" events might not just spur learning but may also shape the critical thinking and problem-solving skills that underpin inventive and adaptive intelligence.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-learning-in-a-toddler-s-world">Learning in a toddler's world</h2>



As surprising as it may seem, this study demonstrates that the world of toddlers is far from simplistic. Their minds are constantly dissecting possibilities and impossibilities, enabling them to better understand their surroundings. 



Can you imagine the impact on education if we could harness this natural curiosity? We must reconsider how we approach early education and create possibilities around the concept of the "impossible."



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.pnas.org/doi/full/10.1073/pnas.2411297121" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences</a>.



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Toddlers learn faster after witnessing 'impossible' events

Did you think only adults factor in possibilities and probabilities...

Picture a world 160 million years ago, with prehistoric landscapes teeming with life. Recently, scientists have uncovered a treasure trove of paleontological evidence from this time period in Argentina, including the stunning discovery of the oldest fossil of a giant tadpole.



This remarkable find not only shifts the current understanding of our planet's ecological memory but also beats the previous record holder of antiquity by 20 million years.



The specimen was not just a tooth or a bone fragment, but a fossil that was almost perfectly preserved.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-insights-from-the-tadpole-fossil">Insights from the tadpole fossil</h2>



Partially encased in a slab of sandstone, the fossil presents a detailed makeup of the tadpole's skull and backbone. Imprints of its eyes and nerves offer scientists a unique view into this ancient being's life.



"It's not only the oldest tadpole known, but also the most exquisitely preserved," said Mariana Chuliver, a biologist at <a href="https://www.maimonides.edu/home/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Maimonides University</a> in Buenos Aires.



<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/frogs-have-a-third-eye-for-direct-light-sensing/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Frogs</a> have a history that spans up to 217 million years ago. However, the specifics surrounding their <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/wood-frogs-achieved-significant-biological-evolution-25-years-salt-pollution/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">evolution</a>, particularly from the point of being tadpoles, have been shrouded in obscurity. The tadpole fossil could be the key to unlocking these mysteries.



"This finding has dual importance because it represents the oldest-known tadpole and, to our knowledge, the first stem-anuran larva. Its exquisite preservation, including soft tissues, shows features associated with the filter-feeding mechanism characteristic of extant tadpoles," wrote the study authors. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-understanding-frog-evolution">Understanding frog evolution</h2>



Standing at half a foot long, this ancient tadpole represents a youthful stage of a now-extinct <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/limnonectes-cassiopeia-new-fanged-fighting-frog-species-discovered-philippines/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">giant frog</a> species. 



The discovery is an exciting step toward understanding the intricate process of a frog's transformation.



Ben Kligman, a paleontologist at the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History said the fossil is "starting to help narrow the timeframe in which a frog becomes a frog."



The implications of these findings are monumental for the field of paleontology and our comprehension of life's evolution.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-characteristics-of-tadpole-fossil">Characteristics of tadpole fossil</h2>



In an article published recently in the journal&nbsp;Nature, the experts noted that there is a striking similarity between this fossil and the tadpoles we see today.



Even the remnants of a gill scaffold system, a tool that today's tadpoles use to sift food particles from water, were found.



The understanding that the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/amphibians-threatened-by-mercury-with-unknown-health-impacts/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">amphibians' survival</a> strategy has remained unchanged for millions of years, enabling them to survive several mass extinctions, highlights the astonishing resilience of nature.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-extending-the-boundaries-of-knowledge">Extending the boundaries of knowledge</h2>



This discovery provides an invaluable glimpse into the distant past and sheds light on a creature that played a significant part in the Earth's ecological history.



 It's an exciting reminder of the myriad questions that still surround the path of life on our planet. 



Unearthing these secrets of the past provides us with a deeper understanding of the complexities of life today and the challenges of the future.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-tadpole-s-journey-through-time">Tadpole’s journey through time</h2>



With its remarkable preservation, the giant tadpole fossil offers an opportunity to glimpse into <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ecosystem-behavior-earth-first-sea-creatures-stirring-water-drove-evolution/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ancient ecosystems</a> that thrived over a hundred million years ago.



The sandstone slab hints at the environment in which the tadpole lived - a world rich with water bodies teeming with early amphibians, insects, and aquatic plants.



By studying the fossil’s surroundings, researchers gain insights into the ecological dynamics that supported early amphibian life, painting a vivid picture of the predator-prey relationships, food chains, and habitat structures of that era. 



This contextual understanding can shed light on the adaptive strategies that amphibians, like this tadpole, developed to survive.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-further-paleontological-exploration">Further paleontological exploration</h2>



The tadpole fossil found in Argentina could very well be the catalyst for a renewed focus on South American fossil beds.



While paleontological research has traditionally concentrated on other regions, this study highlights the continent's potential for offering new insights into the evolution of ancient species.



As researchers prepare to conduct further excavations, they anticipate unearthing other fossils that might clarify the evolutionary journey of amphibians and potentially reveal new species altogether. 



Such discoveries could add depth to the global fossil record, helping to refine the timelines and connections within the evolutionary tree, particularly for amphibians and their descendants.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41586-024-08055-y" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature</a>.



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World's oldest tadpole fossil reveals secrets of ancient amphibians

Picture a world 160 million years ago, with prehistoric landscapes...

Contrails, those wispy trails that jets leave behind as they move through the sky, are not as harmless as they might seem.



These long, thin clouds created in the wake of high-flying aircraft are surprisingly detrimental to the environment. Their formation involves a layered process, blending hot exhaust gases with the cold upper atmosphere.



Under certain conditions, these hazy shreds of condensed water vapor spread and transform into contrail cirrus clouds. Instead of dissipating into space, these clouds trap heat, contributing to over half of aviation's total climate impact.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-climate-impacts-of-contrails">Climate impacts of contrails</h2>



Fangqun Yu, a senior researcher from the <a href="https://www.albany.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University at Albany</a>'s Atmospheric Sciences Research Center, has recently led a study focused on this troubling phenomenon.



The research took a closer look at the contrail formation process, scrutinizing the role of non-volatile (soot) particles and volatile particles.



The investigation opens up possible strategies to lessen contrail climate impacts and adopt more eco-friendly practices in aviation.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-unveiling-the-contrail-enigma">Unveiling the contrail enigma</h2>



"Soot particles, formed during fuel combustion inside aircraft engines, are known to dominate the formation of contrail ice particles," Yu explained. 



"As the aviation industry moves toward <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/plant-scraps-sustainable-jet-fuel/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">sustainable fuels</a> and new engine technologies, soot emissions are being significantly reduced and volatile particles formed in engine exhaust plumes (after emission) become important to analyze."



This in-depth exploration aims to augment our comprehension of the contrivance driving the number of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/modern-airplanes-are-worse-for-the-environment/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">contrail ice particles</a> formed during flights, bringing both soot particle sizes and volatile particles into focus.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-volatile-particles-in-contrail-formation">Volatile particles in contrail formation</h2>



The information gathered for this study was made possible by an ensemble that included experts from the NASA Langley Research Center and the German Aerospace Center.



The researchers conducted flight simulations utilizing data amassed from the recent ECLIF (Emission and CLimate Impact of alternative Fuels) field expeditions.



Contrary to past findings which indicated that volatile particles only came into play once soot emissions were drastically curtailed during flights, this new study suggests otherwise.



"Our research indicates that volatile particles can contribute to the number of ice particles in a contrail at medium levels of soot emissions and average temperatures in the air, extending the ranges of conditions when these particles become a factor," explained Yu.



"This is important as we assess the climate impact of contrails, both during current flights and for future more sustainable ones."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-shaping-the-future-of-aviation">Shaping the future of aviation</h2>



The research focused on size-resolved particle microphysics and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-small-aerosols-influence-cloud-formation/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">aerosol-cloud</a> interactions that affect climate change. Yu has been studying the microphysics of particles in the atmosphere (including contrail formation) and their impact on the environment for over two decades.



Yu's earlier work includes the development of a sophisticated model for simulating particle and contrail formation and he has authored numerous scientific papers on the topic.



Currently, Yu is working with a team at GE Research to gain a deeper understanding of the influence of clean aviation fuels and new engine technologies on contrail formation.



Over the past year, the team has conducted a series of experiments inside the altitude simulation chamber at NASA's Glenn Research Center in Cleveland.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-path-to-reducing-contrails">A path to reducing contrails</h2>



As the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/aviations-contribution-to-climate-change-is-expected-to-intensify/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">aviation</a> industry seeks to mitigate its environmental footprint, alternative fuels offer a promising pathway to reducing contrail formation and its warming effects. 



Sustainable aviation fuels (SAFs), crafted from renewable sources, not only produce fewer soot particles during combustion but also hold the potential to cut back on heat-trapping contrail cirrus clouds. 



Recent flight trials have shown that jets powered by SAF blends can significantly reduce soot emissions, highlighting the importance of a wider industry shift.



However, for SAFs to make a meaningful difference, large-scale adoption across the aviation sector is essential. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-aviation-practices-and-climate-goals">Aviation practices and climate goals</h2>



Continued research will play a crucial role in driving this transformation, ensuring that each step taken aligns aviation practices with global <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/capable-countries-must-take-the-lead-on-climate-goals/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">climate goals</a>.



With sustained innovation and commitment, a future with cleaner skies and reduced climate impact becomes more than just an aspiration - it becomes a viable reality for generations to come.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://pubs.acs.org/doi/10.1021/acs.est.4c04340" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Environmental Science &amp; Technology</a>.



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How do airplane contrails impact Earth's climate?

Contrails, those wispy trails that jets leave behind as they...

As the holiday season approaches, it's normal for kids, and even adults to indulge their sweet tooth more than usual. But recent research provides a stark reminder about the long-term health effects of sugar, particularly for the very young ones.



Newly published research sheds light on how reducing sugar in the first 1,000 days after conception might significantly lower a child's risk of chronic illnesses later in life. That means from gestation up to age 2, lower sugar could be a real game-changer.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-daily-sugar-consumption">Daily sugar consumption </h2>



Using data from before and after the end of the UK's World War II-era sugar rationing in 1953, the researchers embarked on a thrilling journey back in time.



During the war, food rationing was the norm. Essentials like sugar, fats, bacon, meat, and cheese were scarce. But once <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/the-average-american-consumes-80-pounds-of-sugar-per-year/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">sugar</a> rationing ended post-war, the average adult's daily sugar consumption in the UK nearly doubled in no time flat, jumping from 40 grams to 80 grams.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-impact-of-sugar-on-health">Impact of sugar on health</h2>



The researchers studied nearly 60,183 participants born between October 1951 and March 1956, looking to determine the effects of this sugar consumption spike.



The lead author, Tadeja Gracner, a senior economist at the <a href="https://www.usc.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Southern California</a>, noted that this situation prompted a unique natural experiment.



The team analyzed figures from the UK Biobank, a large biomedical database, which showed how babies conceived or born during rationing had a 30% decrease in obesity risk. Interestingly, there was a more rapid increase in type 2 diabetes and hypertension in those born after the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/want-to-reverse-your-age-take-sugar-out-of-your-diet/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">sugar</a> ration ended.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-more-than-a-sweet-tooth">More than a sweet tooth</h2>



“We are designed to like sweet things from the moment of birth,” said Dr. Mark Corkins, the division chief of pediatric gastroenterology and professor of pediatrics at the <a href="https://www.uthsc.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Tennessee Health Science Center</a>, who was not involved with the new research.



The refining and concentration of sugar have made it more popular than ever, often over more nutritious options like fruits. Moreover, high sugar consumption seriously impacts our body's metabolism, causing us to store food as fat.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-sugar-a-silent-health-threat">Sugar: A silent health threat</h2>



The US federal Dietary Guidelines recommend that individuals age 2 or older should limit their daily intake of added sugar to less than 10% of their total calories. However, sticking to these guidelines isn't easy, especially when <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/natural-sugar-sources-are-key-to-preventing-childhood-obesity/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">sugar</a> is ubiquitous, even in baby and toddler foods.



So how do we shift this sugar-dense narrative towards a healthier one? Gracner suggests it's up to both parents and companies alike. 



“Added sugar is everywhere, even in baby and toddler foods, and children are bombarded with TV ads for sugary snacks,” Gracner said. 



“While improving nutritional literacy among parents and caregivers is key, we should also hold companies accountable to reformulate baby foods with healthier options and regulate the marketing and pricing of sugary foods targeted at kids.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-impact-of-excessive-sugar">Impact of excessive sugar</h2>



The implications of high sugar consumption extend beyond individual health, permeating societal structures and economies. The increased prevalence of chronic conditions like obesity, diabetes, and heart disease attributable to sugar intake places considerable strain on healthcare systems. 



Moreover, productivity losses due to these health issues impact economic growth at both macro and micro levels. Public awareness campaigns and policy initiatives aimed at reducing sugar consumption have become essential in mitigating these widespread challenges. 



Education plays a crucial role in reshaping public perceptions and behaviors concerning diet and nutrition, fostering a culture that values long-term wellness over momentary indulgence.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-towards-a-sweet-solution">Towards a sweet solution</h2>



If you're a parent who wants to reduce your child's sugar consumption, then changing your own eating habits could be a good start. 



After all, children tend to model their parents' behaviors. Furthermore, replacing sugary drinks with healthier alternatives and avoiding stocking up on <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/type-2-diabetes-heightens-alzheimers-risk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">sweet junk food</a> at home could help set your child on the path to healthier eating habits.



However, it's not just about reducing sugar intake. Pregnant and lactating women on average consume more than triple the recommended amount of added sugar, crossing 80 grams per day, according to the new study.



“We all want to improve our health and give our children the best start in life, and reducing added sugar early is a powerful step in that direction,” Gracner said. “With better information, environment and the right incentives, parents can more easily reduce sugar exposure, for kids and themselves.”



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.science.org/doi/10.1126/science.adn5421" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Science</a>.



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Cutting sugar in childhood can prevent a lifetime of health problems

As the holiday season approaches, it's normal for kids, and...

A comprehensive review study has recently investigated the vital connections between marine biodiversity conservation, human health, and well-being. According to the experts, marine protected areas (MPAs) not only support ecological balance but also provide tangible benefits for people, underscoring their dual importance.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-marine-protected-areas-nbsp">Marine protected areas&nbsp;</h2>



Marine protected areas are legally designated sections of the ocean recognized for their conservation value. These areas are protected by laws that restrict human activities, aiming to allow ecosystems to thrive without significant interference. 



Depending on the specific regulations of an <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/marine-protected-areas-fall-short-on-2030-biodiversity-targets/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">MPA</a>, activities like fishing, building, or oil drilling may be prohibited or limited. The overarching goal is to create a space where marine life can flourish and, in turn, contribute to ecological and human welfare.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-expanding-ocean-protection">Expanding ocean protection</h2>



With global plans to extend MPAs as part of the UN's “30x30” initiative - seeking to protect 30% of the world's oceans and land by 2030 - understanding the impact of these areas on both people and nature has become increasingly important.&nbsp;



The new study, conducted by the <a href="https://www.worldwildlife.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">World Wide Fund for Nature</a>, <a href="https://www.harvard.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Harvard University</a>’s School of Public Health, and <a href="https://duke.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Duke University</a>’s marine laboratory, led by Daniel Viana, reviewed data from over 200 scientific articles published since 1973.



The team discovered that in 234 MPAs worldwide, more than 60% reported improvements in both conservation outcomes and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/world-environment-day-the-critical-role-of-nature-in-human-well-being/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">human well-being</a>. This finding suggests that well-managed MPAs can simultaneously support nature and the communities that depend on marine resources.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-protected-areas-and-local-communities-nbsp">Protected areas and local communities&nbsp;</h2>



The study also included MPAs that permit sustainable use through controlled <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/sustainable-fishing-gets-a-boost-from-genomics-roadmap/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">fishing</a> practices that avoid harming delicate ecosystems. These measures, such as using hook-and-line methods or fish traps, minimize damage to coral reefs and other sensitive habitats. 



The research suggests that investing in MPAs often results in benefits for local communities, particularly in terms of fishing yields and food access.



MPAs play an essential role in small island nations like Bonaire, Palau, and the Cook Islands. These regions, where over 95% of fish catches are tied to area-based conservation, illustrate how marine protection can drive both ecological and economic gains.&nbsp;



However, the study noted that despite the evident link between MPAs and improved food access, few studies have measured the direct nutritional impact on local communities.&nbsp;



Only one research project in the Philippines established a connection between enhanced fish access and better health outcomes, finding reduced rates of childhood stunting.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-nutrient-contributions-of-protected-areas-nbsp">Nutrient contributions of protected areas&nbsp;</h2>



The world’s waters - rivers, seas, lakes, and floodplains - are rich in edible plants and animals that offer essential vitamins, minerals, and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/insects-provide-essential-fatty-acids-to-other-animals/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">fatty acids</a>. These nutrients, particularly when harvested sustainably, can significantly bolster the diets of coastal populations. 



The study quantified the nutrient contributions from foods within MPAs, revealing that even with just 8% of the oceans under protection, these areas contribute 14% of the global supply of six key micronutrients from marine sources.



By fostering healthy marine environments, MPAs enhance fish populations that can spill over into adjacent areas, leading to more robust catches, increased income from fishing, and better access to nutritious food.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-challenges-and-complexities">Challenges and complexities</h2>



While MPAs offer considerable benefits, implementing them effectively is not without challenges. The study found that many MPAs lack effective management, which can limit their success.&nbsp;



Additionally, while MPAs help support marine life and nearby human communities, they do not directly address significant threats like <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/marine-protected-areas-were-not-designed-for-climate-resilience/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">climate change</a> and pollution that require broader action.



<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/aquaculture-impacts-wild-fish-much-more-than-we-thought/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Aquaculture</a>, or the farming of aquatic organisms, is growing as a supplement to wild harvests to meet the increasing demand for aquatic food. Although it provides more than half of the aquatic food consumed globally, aquaculture must continue to advance in sustainability practices. 



The study also emphasized that in many developing coastal nations, wild-harvested food remains a critical source of nutrition for millions.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-marine-protected-areas-and-global-health">Marine protected areas and global health</h2>



Linking marine conservation to human health presents promising opportunities but also reveals research gaps. While MPAs can contribute to better health outcomes by boosting fish availability and nutrient intake, questions remain about the equitable distribution of these benefits.&nbsp;



For instance, in the Maldives, the majority of fish caught from reefs are consumed by tourists rather than local residents, illustrating potential disparities.



Despite these challenges, the study underscores the potential of MPAs to promote a regenerative relationship between people and the environment.&nbsp;



By managing fisheries to support nutritional health rather than merely maximizing profits, a “nutrition-sensitive” approach to marine conservation could help address global food security.



In conclusion, while MPAs cannot tackle all threats alone, their role in sustaining both marine ecosystems and human communities represents a promising path toward a balanced, health-focused future.



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How marine protected areas boost human health

A comprehensive review study has recently investigated the vital connections...

Recent studies on the Thwaites Glacier, infamously known as the “Doomsday Glacier,” have fueled discussions on potential solutions to mitigate climate change impacts, including controversial geoengineering approaches.&nbsp;



The glacier’s stability is pivotal because its collapse could lead to catastrophic sea level rise, threatening millions.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-accelerated-melting-of-doomsday-glacier">Accelerated melting of Doomsday Glacier </h2>



One key <a href="https://dx.doi.org/10.1073/pnas.2404766121" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">study</a>, led by researchers from the <a href="https://uci.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of California Irvine</a> and <a href="https://uwaterloo.ca/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Waterloo</a> and published in May, highlighted how warming <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ocean-warming-is-subtly-changing-the-tides/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">tidal currents</a> are accelerating Thwaites' melting faster than many models anticipated. 



Situated along the marine edge of the West Antarctic Ice Sheet (WAIS), the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/doomsday-glacier-may-collapse-sooner-than-we-thought/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Thwaites Glacier</a> acts as a critical barrier. The glacier's retreat, fueled by climate change, already contributes to 4% of global sea level rise, losing about 50 billion tons of ice annually.



The WAIS itself, a vast ice sheet sitting below sea level, could raise sea levels by nearly 11 feet if it collapses. This would have dire implications for major coastal cities and vulnerable island nations.&nbsp;



The potential breaching of Thwaites represents a tipping point - a situation where crossing a critical climate threshold leads to rapid, potentially irreversible changes.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-doomsday-glacier-stability">Doomsday Glacier stability</h2>



Amid these concerning findings, a more recent <a href="https://dx.doi.org/10.1126/sciadv.ado7794" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">study</a> led by <a href="https://home.dartmouth.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Dartmouth College</a> and the <a href="https://www.ed.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Edinburgh</a> offered a glimmer of hope. This study suggests that Thwaites may be less prone to a process known as marine ice cliff instability (MICI) than previously believed. 



The MICI theory proposes that tall, retreating ice cliffs are inherently unstable and likely to collapse, leading to accelerated glacier loss.&nbsp;



However, the researchers found that thinning ice may, in fact, slow the calving process, potentially stabilizing ice cliffs. This discovery underscores the need for refined models to improve predictions about WAIS behavior.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-solutions-to-slow-glacial-retreat">Solutions to slow glacial retreat</h2>



The potential risks associated with Thwaites’ rapid melting have pushed scientists to consider geoengineering as a possible <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/should-we-risk-geoengineering-to-reverse-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">intervention</a>. 



Geoengineering involves altering the environment through technological and structural means to slow down or stop glacial retreat, even in the face of rising <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/global-temperatures-increase-scientists-plan-slow-down-rising-heat/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">global temperatures</a>.



A <a href="https://climateengineering.uchicago.edu/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/Glacial-Climate-Intervention_A-Research-Vision.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">report</a> from the <a href="https://www.uchicago.edu/en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Chicago</a>’s Climate Systems Engineering Initiative, published in July, called for further research into glacier geoengineering as a response to the severe threats posed by rapidly receding glaciers. 



John Moore, an Arctic Center professor and co-author of the report, stressed the challenges faced by such approaches: “it will take 15 to 30 years for us to understand enough to recommend or rule out any [glacier geoengineering] interventions.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-radical-geoengineering-proposals">Radical geoengineering proposals</h2>



Among the proposed geoengineering strategies are large-scale interventions, such as constructing submarine curtains to block warm tidal currents from reaching glacier ice.&nbsp;



These curtains could be crafted from durable fabrics or created through a network of pipes releasing air bubbles to act as a barrier.



Gernot Wagner, a climate economist at the Columbia Climate School, highlighted the potential of such interventions when executed correctly.&nbsp;



“For some polar <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/can-we-still-prevent-critical-climate-tipping-points/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">tipping points</a> like Arctic sea ice and the WAIS, glacial geoengineering seems to be the only way for us to more or less guarantee that we can address these tipping points,” he said.



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



Despite the potential benefits, geoengineering has drawn criticism from glaciologists and climate experts who question its feasibility and warn that it may divert attention from critical emission-reduction efforts.&nbsp;



Concerns are that reliance on geoengineering could foster complacency, overshadowing the immediate need to reduce carbon emissions.



Wagner himself expressed mixed feelings, acknowledging that while the idea of using submarine curtains initially seemed "crazy," it could also serve as a wake-up call.&nbsp;



“You can use it as a push to say, ‘wait, if serious people are talking about [using curtains] as a solution, maybe we should be taking it more seriously and cutting emissions much more.’”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-urgent-need-for-emission-reductions">Urgent need for emission reductions</h2>



Geoengineering, as Wagner succinctly put it, is not a cure-all. “When we talk about glacial geoengineering, we need to tell the truth, which is that it’s not a solution to climate change - at best, it’s a painkiller.”&nbsp;



This approach, while potentially buying time to stave off the most severe impacts, must be paired with aggressive measures to curb <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/global-carbon-dioxide-emissions-hit-a-record-high-in-2023/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">global emissions</a>.



As research continues and new studies emerge, the fate of the Thwaites Glacier serves as a stark reminder of the delicate balance needed in addressing climate challenges.&nbsp;



While innovative solutions may offer temporary relief, the ultimate focus must remain on long-term strategies that promote sustainability and prevent reaching critical climate tipping points.



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Can geoengineering save the Doomsday Glacier?

Recent studies on the Thwaites Glacier, infamously known as the...

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Today’s Video of the Day from the <a href="https://www.esa.int/">European Space Agency</a> features Nushagak Bay, a large estuary in southwest Alaska. Nushagak runs mainly north to south and exits in Bristol Bay, a large body of water in the Bering Sea.



"The bay is primarily fed by the Nushagak River, which begins in the Alaska Range and flows southwest approximately 450 km. The bay is also fed by several additional rivers including the Wood, Igushik, Snake and Weary rivers," says ESA.



"The dark colors of the Nushagak River are most likely due to tannins or lignins (chemical substances found in plants). Tannins and lignins from roots, leaves, seeds, bark and soil can leach into the water and give it a brown or even black colour. The sediments then flow southwards where it is mixed with the bluer waters of the bay."



Video/ Image 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

Nushagak Bay in southwest Alaska

[sendtonews key="0ynNMYkMKa-2340414-12187" 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.acs.org/">American Chemical Society</a> (ACS) reveals that proteins on flu viruses are actually flexible, tilting and waving in a “breath-like” motion. According to the experts, these proteins could be used to better defend against the flu.



"The main antigenic targets of influenza virus are two surface glycoproteins, hemagglutinin (HA) and neuraminidase (NA). Whereas the structural and dynamical properties of both glycoproteins have been studied previously, the understanding of their plasticity in the whole-virion context is fragmented," wrote the researchers.



To investigate, the team conducted detailed simulations of the influenza A H1N1 virion, or the swine flu. The experts concluded that the visualizations show many new vulnerable states of flu viruses, which could improve future vaccines and antiviral drugs.



Video/ Image Credit: American Chemical Society&nbsp;



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



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

Flu viruses are more flexible than expected

[sendtonews key="G9bUoxcjr4-2511624-12187" 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> features Lake Trasimeno, which is located west of Perugia in central Italy. It is the fourth largest lake in the country. While Trasimeno’s water level varies, it has a maximum depth of approximately six meters.&nbsp;



"In this Copernicus Sentinel-2 image, captured on 6 August 2022, the lake’s emerald green colour is likely due to the presence of phytoplankton. Streaks in the water, particularly visible in the west, indicate the presence of soil and sediments which have been stirred up by winds. Dark colored waters in the southern part of the lake indicate a presence of submerged and floating macrophytes (aquatic plants) as well as algae," says ESA.



"Surrounded by hills on three sides, Trasimeno is subject to heavy storms created by winds, especially from the north and west. There are three islets in the lake: Maggiore, Minore and Polvese (the largest). The lake’s shores are sparsely inhabited with only two popular villages: Castiglione del Lago and Passignano sul Trasimeno."



"Italy is experiencing its worst drought in 70 years which has affected drinking water supplies, hydroelectric power and agricultural production. High temperatures, hot winds and lack of rainfall are the main causes of drought in the Umbrian region which saw Lake Trasimeno’s drop 1.3 m, reaching the limit of the hydrometric zero in July 2022."



Video/Image Credit: ESA&nbsp;



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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

Lake Trasimeno in Central Italy

[sendtonews key="3upvlAaHgO-2256633-12187" 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.acs.org/">American Chemical Society</a> describes a new self-powered nanosensor that can instantly detect mercury contamination with the tap of a finger.&nbsp;



The oxidized form of mercury can be harmful when it is ingested through contaminated water or food. This makes it necessary for experts to develop sensors that can quickly and accurately detect the presence of mercury.&nbsp;



Zong-Hong Lin and colleagues have now created a triboelectric nanosensor (TENS) that can detect mercury by simply by touching a sample. According to the researchers, their TENS could serve as the basis for similar devices to safely and remotely monitor other pollutants.



Video Credit: American Chemical Society&nbsp;



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



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

Detecting mercury contamination with the tap of a finger

[sendtonews key="LvS8v8bp9z-2564889-12187" 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> features Kainji Lake, a reservoir on the Niger River.



In 1968, Kainji Lake was created by the construction of the Kainji Dam. The Niger River, the third longest in Africa, enters the lake in the north.&nbsp;



According to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/rivers-in-the-american-west-are-a-lifesaving-resource-for-birds/">ESA</a>, the creation of the lake submerged Foge Island and the town of Bussa and permanently flooded other riverine settlements, leaving around 50,000 people displaced.&nbsp;



Large parts of Foge Island are temporarily exposed during low water tides, and the land is often used by migrating fishermen. Kainji Dam is a dam across the Niger River in Niger State of Central Nigeria. 



Wild mammals occur at relatively low densities due to illegal hunting. Lake Kainji has suffered a dramatic decline as a fishery due to the high numbers of artisanal and subsistence fisherfolk using the lake. It has been suggested that a period of closure, together with controlled fishing rights may help improve fish stocks.



Kainji Lake National Park is the oldest of its kind in Nigeria. The park contains three distinct areas: a part of the Kainji Lake, the Borgu Game Reserve to the west of the lake, and the Zugurma Game Reserve to the southeast. The park is home to around 65 mammal species, 350 bird species, and 30 species of reptiles and amphibians. 



Video/ Image Credit: European Space Agency&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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Kainji Lake in north central Nigeria

[sendtonews key="iuA5mpp3jv-1641775-12187" type="single"] Today’s Video of the Day from the...

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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



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

Designing crops that can beat the heat

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