Human litter has now infiltrated the deepest parts of Earth's oceans and seas. Debris and trash produced by human activity was spotted at a depth of 5,112 meters (3.2 miles) in the Mediterranean Sea. 



The site, which is the deepest point in the Mediterranean, is known as Calypso Deep, and is located off the south-western coast of Greece in the Ionian Sea.



In a new study, researchers have identified 167 objects at the bottom. Of these, 148 were clearly marine debris, while 19 were believed to be of human origin, though less definitively.



According to the authors, this represents one of the highest concentrations of litter documented at great depths in any sea.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-debris-in-the-bottom-of-the-sea">Debris in the bottom of the sea </h2>



To investigate the Calypso Deep, scientists used a crewed submersible called the Limiting Factor, a deep-submergence vehicle capable of withstanding extreme pressure.



Images captured by the Limiting Factor confirm that besides accumulating on coasts, surface waters and shallower bottoms, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/is-it-still-possible-to-save-the-ocean-from-plastic-pollution/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">marine waste</a> also reaches the deepest, most remote points of the Mediterranean Sea.&nbsp;



Given the heavy impact of human activities on this nearly enclosed sea, the discovery emphasizes the urgency of global actions to reduce marine debris and a need for lifestyle changes that cut waste and protect marine environments worldwide.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-calypso-deep-as-a-debris-trap">The Calypso Deep as a debris trap</h2>



Located about 60 kilometers (37 miles) south west of the Peloponnese coast in Greece, the Calypso Deep is a depression within the Hellenic Trench system. 



Surrounded by steep terrain in an area with active faults, it has slopes measuring thousands of meters and a mostly flat floor at its lowest point. 



Its deeper, kidney-shaped portion extends over approximately 20 by 5 kilometers (12 by 3 miles) at depths surpassing 5,000 meters (3 miles).



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-litter-s-journey-to-the-bottom">Litter's journey to the bottom</h2>



But how does rubbish collect so far down?



According to Miquel Canals from the University of Barcelona’s <a href="https://www.ub.edu/portal/web/earth-sciences" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Faculty of Earth Sciences</a>, the debris comes from various sources, both terrestrial and marine. 



It could have arrived by various routes, including both long-distance transport by <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/weakening-ocean-currents-could-cost-trillions-of-dollars/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ocean currents</a> and direct dumping. 



Canals explains that plastic items, for instance, can drift from coastal waters. 



Some light waste, such as plastics, comes from the coast, from where it escapes to the Calypso Deep, just 60 kilometers [37 miles] away. 



Some plastics, such as bags, drift just above the bottom until they are partially or completely buried, or disintegrate into smaller fragments.



“We have also found evidence of the boats’ dumping of bags full of rubbish, as revealed by the pile-up of different types of waste followed by an almost rectilinear furrow," Canals continued.



"Unfortunately, as far as the Mediterranean is concerned, it would not be wrong to say that ‘not a single inch of it is clean.'"



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-debris-transport-across-the-sea">Debris transport across the sea</h2>



Canals noted that the Calypso Deep is a closed depression, which favors the accumulation of debris inside it. He pointed out that the weak currents in the trench also facilitate the deposition of light debris at the bottom.



Floating debris originates mostly in the southern Ionian Sea or further south, and drifting eddies bring it toward the Calypso Deep.



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-full"><a href="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/marine-litter-debris_bottom-seafloor_Mediterranean-Sea_montage_credit-Caladan-Oceanic_1m.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><img src="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/marine-litter-debris_bottom-seafloor_Mediterranean-Sea_montage_credit-Caladan-Oceanic_1s.webp" alt="The debris identified by the international team in the Calypso Deep warns of the need to implement global policy actions to reduce ocean waste, as well as to encourage changes in citizens’ consumption habits and waste reduction in order to protect seas and oceans around the world. Credit: Caladan Oceanic" class="wp-image-1962233"/></a><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">The debris identified by the international team in the Calypso Deep warns of the need to implement global policy actions to reduce ocean waste, as well as to encourage changes in citizens’ consumption habits and waste reduction in order to protect seas and oceans around the world. Credit: Caladan Oceanic</figcaption></figure>



“When these eddies are located over the Calypso Trench, some debris tends to fall slowly to the bottom, aided by degradation mechanisms and ballasting processes that increase its density," explained Canals 



"Surface currents can also transport debris from the Adriatic Sea to the north, through the Strait of Otranto, and from the waters off north-western Greece."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-technology-to-explore-the-abyss">Technology to explore the abyss</h2>



Investigating such extreme depths demands cutting-edge tools. In this case, the Limiting Factor submarine, built by Triton Submarines, allowed a small crew of two to descend. 



Moving at about 1.8 kilometers (1.1 miles) per hour to obtain clear images, the Limiting Factor covered roughly 650 meters (0.4 miles) in a straight line over a 43-minute window on the bottom.&nbsp;



“On each dive, more time is usually spent descending and ascending the vehicle back to the surface than inspecting the bottom. Each complete dive usually takes a few hours,” Canals noted.



The expedition revealed no substantial impact on local marine life, likely due to the area’s low biodiversity. 



Only a few species - namely, the fish Coryphaenoides mediterraneus and the crustacean Acanthephyra eximia - appeared in the footage. 



“However, in places with more <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/world-ocean-day-a-unified-approach-to-protect-biodiversity/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">biodiversity</a>, there are different types of interaction between the debris deposited on the bottom and the organisms, such as ghost fishing, burial, hooking or ingestion, but also the use of debris as a substrate where animals can grow, hide or lay their eggs,” Canals said.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-mediterranean-s-pollution-problem">Mediterranean’s pollution problem</h2>



Scientists first documented trash on the ocean floor in 1975, in the North Atlantic’s Skagerrak Strait. Areas like canyons and seamounts are especially prone to accumulating garbage, either from settling, burial, or erosion processes. 



Now, the Mediterranean ranks among the worst-affected seas. In 2021, research identified the Strait of Messina as the global hot spot for seafloor litter. 



This highlights broader concerns about intensifying human influence on an enclosed region subject to heavy maritime traffic and fishing.



“The Mediterranean is an enclosed sea, surrounded by humanity, with intense maritime traffic and widespread fishing activity," noted Canals. 



"The evidence provided by our research should shake up global efforts, and in particular in the Mediterranean, to mitigate waste dumping, especially plastics, in the natural environment and ultimately in the sea, in line with the <a href="https://www.unep.org/inc-plastic-pollution" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">UN Global Plastics Treaty</a> against plastic pollution, which is still pending approval."



Canals emphasized that the ocean floor is still largely unknown to society as a whole, which makes it difficult to raise social and political awareness about the conservation of these spaces. 



"It is necessary to make a joint effort between scientists, communicators, journalists, the media, influencers and other people with social impact. The problem is there, and it has an enormous scope, even if it is not directly visible. We should not forget about it."



Details of the study are published in the <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0025326X25000852?via%3Dihub" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Marine Pollution Bulletin</a>.



Image Credit: Caladan Oceanic



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Human trash has found its way to the deepest parts of Earth's seas and oceans

Human litter has now infiltrated the deepest parts of Earth's oceans and seas. Debris and trash produced by human activity was spotted at a depth of 5,112 meters (3.2 miles) in the Mediterranean Sea. The site, which is the deepest point in the Mediterranean, is known as Calypso Deep, and is located off the south-western coast of Greece in the Ionian Sea. In a new study, researchers have identified 167 objects at the bottom. Of these, 148 were clearly marine debris, while 19 were believed to be...

The frozen landscape of the Canadian Arctic was once home to palm trees - a revelation that defies everything we thought we knew about Earth's climate history.



Today, the Arctic is defined by ice, permafrost, and extreme cold, supporting only the hardiest plants and animals. 



However, evidence suggests that millions of years ago, the region was warm enough to sustain towering palm trees and a thriving ecosystem.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-new-look-at-the-arctic-s-past">A new look at the Arctic's past </h2>



Researchers at <a href="https://www.conncoll.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Connecticut College</a> are describing fossil discoveries that tell a very different tale of the Arctic's history.



The research sheds light on how the Arctic once existed - with dense forest, warm-water ecosystems, and a climate akin to the today's <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/over-half-of-the-worlds-vertebrates-reside-in-the-tropics/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">tropics</a>.



The idea of palms thriving in a region that now endures months of icy darkness and subzero temperatures is astonishing. 



It contradicts our understanding of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/arctic-ecosystems-are-endangered-by-global-warming/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Arctic</a> environments and compels us to reexamine the dynamic nature of Earth's climate over geologic timescales.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-plant-fossils-from-the-eocene">Plant fossils from the Eocene </h2>



The scientists studied small silica structures known as phytoliths - microscopic plant fragments that are a fossilized record of past <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/vegetation-impacts-energy-movement-in-the-arctic/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">vegetation</a> - embedded in ancient lakebed residues from Canada's Northwest territories.



The mineralized structures, which preserve the unique shape of the plants they originated from, are important evidence of a drastically different Arctic environment.



In particular, the researchers visited the Giraffe Pipe locality, a relatively well-preserved geological location that provides an exceptional snapshot of prehistoric times, suspended in perpetuity.



This out-of-the way place, which was once a productive ecosystem, contains some of the finest-preserved plant fossils from the Eocene epoch. The fossils help scientists recreate ancient climates with extraordinary accuracy.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-palm-trees-in-the-arctic">Palm trees in the Arctic</h2>



What the team discovered was nothing less than incredible. The fossil record indicates that about 48 million years ago, this area had warm, stable temperatures throughout the year - even in times of pure winter darkness when the sun never broke the horizon.



Contrary to today's Arctic environment, where ice covers the terrain and subzero temperatures prevail for most of the year, this ancient ecosystem was more like a subtropical haven.



Palm trees did not merely survive here - they thrived, towering above a dense forest of warm-climate <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/study-reveals-how-plants-adapt-to-changing-climates/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">plants</a>. Their existence upends long-standing beliefs regarding the boundaries of plant survival and offers a striking image of an Arctic that was once recognizably warm and vibrant.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-palm-trees-and-a-lost-arctic-world">Palm trees and a lost Arctic world</h2>



"These findings give us a window into past greenhouse conditions and help refine models predicting <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/sea-ice-levels-complicate-predictions-of-future-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">future climate change</a>," said Peter Siver, the study's lead researcher.



The discovery included fossilized stegmata - unique linear arrangements of plant structures in palm leaves - which represent the earliest known record of this evolutionary trait.



The researchers also identified traces of warm-adapted aquatic life, further confirming that the Arctic once harbored a stable, temperate ecosystem.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-challenging-climate-assumptions">Challenging climate assumptions</h2>



The study challenges previous assumptions about ice formation in the Northern Hemisphere. By examining these ancient environments, researchers can gain critical insights into how ecosystems adapt to long-term climate shifts.



Warm-adapted aquatic organisms found alongside the palm tree fossils further solidify the narrative of a once-thriving, temperate arctic ecosystem. 



The research offers more than just a fascinating historical account - it provides crucial context for understanding contemporary climate dynamics.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-story-of-life-on-earth">The story of life on Earth</h2>



Understanding Earth's climate history isn't just about satisfying scientific curiosity. It helps us comprehend the incredible adaptability of life and the dramatic transformations our planet can undergo.



The Arctic of 48 million years ago serves as a powerful reminder of the planet's complex and ever-changing nature. 



The study demonstrates that even the most extreme environments can shift drastically over time, shaped by the forces of geology and climate.



In the face of today's climate challenges, these prehistoric insights offer a unique perspective on environmental change, resilience, and the extraordinary story of life on Earth.



The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://academic.oup.com/aob/advance-article/doi/10.1093/aob/mcaf021/8006661" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Annals of Botany</a>.



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Palm tree fossils found in the Arctic rewrite Earth's climate history

The frozen landscape of the Canadian Arctic was once home...

Forests are&nbsp;essential&nbsp;in&nbsp;sequestering carbon, a process that slows the rate of global warming. But when it comes to the ability to store carbon, not all forests are created equal. 



A recent study has revealed that mixed forests with several different species of trees sequester much more carbon than those in which only a single species of tree is present.



The study, led by researchers at the <a href="https://www.uni-freiburg.de/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Freiburg</a>, offers robust evidence that mixed forests are more effective at sequestering carbon, and thus represent a key weapon in the fight against climate change.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-tropical-tree-diversity-experiment">Tropical tree diversity experiment </h2>



The research focused on data from the Sardinilla experiment in Panama, which was set up in 2001 and is the world’s longest-running tropical tree diversity experiment in the world. 



Originally, pastureland was replanted with tree species. Today, forest growth can be compared on plots that were planted with one, two, three, or five different <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/urban-forests-benefit-from-diverse-native-tree-species/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">native tree species</a>.



The forests have now become more mature and scientists can examine long-term trends. The researchers considered multiple carbon stocks in the plots, such as carbon within tree biomass, leaf litter, and mineral soil.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-tree-diversity-boosts-carbon-storage">Tree diversity boosts carbon storage</h2>



The experts found that forests with five tree species had significantly higher carbon stocks above ground than those with only one species.



Mixed forests captured 57% more carbon in tree biomass when compared to monocultures. This confirms that planting different tree species leads to more <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/droughts-and-fires-diminish-forests-carbon-storage-ability/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">carbon storage</a>.



However, belowground carbon stocks and fluxes remained similar, regardless of species diversity.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-resilient-carbon-sink">A resilient carbon sink </h2>



The benefits of tree diversity did not fade over time. In fact, they became stronger, even as the forests faced <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/droughts-and-extreme-weather-events-are-escalating/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">extreme weather events</a>. 



The study period included a severe El Niño-driven drought and a hurricane, yet the mixed forests continued to outperform those composed of monocultures.



Study first author Dr. Florian Schnabel is a forest scientist at the University of Freiburg’s Faculty of Environment and Natural Resources.



“This is important, because in the face of climate change, the long-term carbon balance of forests will depend largely on their stability to disturbances. Diverse forests exhibit greater ecological stability and the risk that the stored carbon is released back to the atmosphere is lower than in monocultures,” said Dr. Schnabel.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-mixed-forests-and-climate-action">Mixed forests and climate action</h2>



The study’s findings suggest that <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/success-story-reforestation-has-helped-keep-the-eastern-us-relatively-cool/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">reforestation</a> projects should prioritize mixed-species forests over monocultures in order to maximize carbon sequestration.



However, the researchers caution against overestimating the climate benefits of planting new forests.



Dr. Catherine Potvin from McGill University in Canada was head of the Sardinilla experiment until 2024, and helped to initiate the study.



“The average yearly net CO2&nbsp;uptake of the planted forests was 5.7 tonnes CO2&nbsp;equivalents per ha and year. It would thus need one-year tree growth on 11 ha of this type of forest to compensate for the emissions of a single one-way flight between Frankfurt and Panama City,” noted Dr. Potvin. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-embracing-forest-diversity">Embracing forest diversity </h2>



The research contributes to a growing collection of evidence that species diversity is central to climate resilience. Mixed forests not only take up more carbon, but also store it more consistently, even in the case of extreme weather events.



When governments and institutions start investing in climate mitigation strategies by planting trees, species diversity is key to making the effects exponentially more powerful.



By creating diverse forests, we can cultivate landscapes that have greater carbon sequestration potential, withstand environmental stress, and provide long-term returns to ecosystems and future generations.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-additional-benefits-of-diverse-forests">Additional benefits of diverse forests</h2>



In addition to carbon storage, mixed forests offer crucial ecological benefits. They promote biodiversity, provide wildlife with food and shelter, and improve conditions for pollinators, seed dispersal agents, and natural pest suppression. These interactions enhance forest health and resilience.



<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/mixed-forests-with-many-tree-species-are-more-effective-at-carbon-storage/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Multispecies forests</a> are also more resistant against disease and pests, as opposed to monocultures where all individuals may succumb to the same pest infestation, leading to heavy financial losses. By reducing this risk, mixed forests maintain long-term stability even under changing conditions.



Furthermore, diverse forests help regulate water, thus maintaining the soil moisture level, preventing soil erosion, and stabilizing environments. Their roots prevent landslides and protect freshwater systems that are vital to communities.



Prioritizing species diversity can lead to more resilient forests that safeguard both the environment and human well-being.



The full results of the study were published in the journal <a href="https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/gcb.70089">Global Change Biology</a>.



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Nature's climate solutions: Mixed forests store more carbon

Forests are&nbsp;essential&nbsp;in&nbsp;sequestering carbon, a process that slows the rate of...

A new study warns that if global warming surpasses 1.5°C, vast regions could lose critical crop diversity, heightening the risk to worldwide food security.&nbsp;



Researchers predict that about one-third of global food production may be in jeopardy due to higher temperatures, underscoring how climate change is expected to reshape agriculture, especially in vulnerable low-latitude countries.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-loss-of-crop-diversity">Loss of crop diversity </h2>



Scientists at <a href="https://www.aalto.fi/en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Aalto University</a> conducted the research, published in <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1038/s43016-025-01135-w" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature Food</a>, by analyzing how changes in temperature, rainfall patterns, and overall aridity will influence the growth of 30 key food <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/creating-resilient-crops-to-cope-with-the-climate-crisis/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">crops</a> around the globe.&nbsp;



The results show that low-latitude areas - including large portions of the tropics - stand to suffer the most. As warming increases, these regions would see far more land becoming unsuitable for agriculture, as well as a sharp drop in the variety of crops that can be grown.



“The loss of diversity means that the range of food crops available for cultivation could decrease significantly in certain areas. That would reduce <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/tiny-molecule-could-shape-the-future-of-food-security/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">food security</a> and make it more difficult to get adequate calories and protein,” said Sara Heikonen, the doctoral researcher who led the study.



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



Up to half of the world’s current food crop production may be impacted by these shifting conditions. Major staples - rice, maize, wheat, potato, and soybean - are likely to face severe reductions in suitable cropland, heightening challenges for societies that depend on them for daily nutrition.&nbsp;



According to Heikonen, many other crops, like “tropical root crops such as yam, which are key to food security in low-income regions, as well as cereals and pulses are particularly vulnerable. 



In sub-Saharan Africa, the region which would be impacted most, almost three quarters of current production is at risk if global warming exceeds 3°C.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-warming-brings-winners-and-losers">Warming brings winners and losers</h2>



The study reveals a stark contrast between low-latitude and mid- to high-latitude regions. While countries nearer the equator face severe crop losses and falling diversity, those in cooler climates could retain their overall production levels. 



Scientists also project that mid- and high-latitude areas may be able to cultivate a broader range of crops in a warming world.



“For example, the cultivation of temperate fruits, such as pears, could become more common in more northerly regions,” Heikonen said.



Yet, the study’s senior author Matti Kummu notes that a favorable shift in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/can-we-predict-the-chaotic-response-of-crops-to-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">climate</a> does not guarantee greater yields. 



“We showed that there’s climatic potential but, for example, warming might bring new pests and extreme weather events, which our model doesn’t include. So the situation isn’t really that black and white,” Kummu said.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-challenges-in-low-latitude-regions">Challenges in low-latitude regions</h2>



Countries already vulnerable to food insecurity, especially in Africa, face mounting difficulties as rising temperatures coincide with other social and economic pressures. Still, Kummu argues there is room for adaptation.



“In many low latitude areas, especially in Africa, the yields are small compared to similar areas elsewhere in the world. They could get higher yields with access to fertilisers and irrigation as well as reducing food losses through the production and storage chain,” he said.&nbsp;



“However, ongoing global warming will add a lot of uncertainty to these estimates and probably even more actions are needed, such as crop selection and novel breeding. But I always say that the modelling and analysis is the easy part – understanding how to make the changes happen is the hardest part.”



Policy-makers in low-latitude countries, the report suggests, must look for ways to close gaps in agricultural infrastructure while simultaneously bracing for more hostile growing conditions.&nbsp;



Without such efforts, local communities already at risk for food shortages may struggle even more in the years ahead.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-securing-the-world-s-food-crops">Securing the world's food crops</h2>



For mid- and high-latitude regions, farmers and legislators will have to remain flexible. Even if warming opens the door to new crops, changes in global demand and market forces could further reshape what people choose to cultivate.&nbsp;



Building resilience likely involves experimenting with different crop varieties, adjusting planting seasons, and investing in infrastructure to cope with potential extreme weather and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/urgent-need-to-protect-earths-forests-from-non-native-pests/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">pests</a>.



“If we want to secure our food system in the future, we need to both mitigate climate change and adapt to its effects,” Heikonen said. “Even if the biggest changes are in equatorial regions, we will all feel the effects through the globalized food system. We need to act together to address these problems.”



This interconnection means that climate-driven crop failures in one part of the world could ripple across supply chains, affecting food prices and availability everywhere.



 The study emphasizes that mitigating climate change is essential, but so too is planning for a hotter and more unpredictable planet.&nbsp;



By adjusting farming practices, investing in research, and coordinating policy efforts, countries can better prepare to feed a growing population in an era of environmental upheaval.



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Critical food crops are threatened by rising temperatures globally

A new study warns that if global warming surpasses 1.5°C,...

The ocean is a vast and interconnected expanse that sustains life, regulates our climate, and provides refuge for diverse marine species. But beneath the surface, marine heatwaves are intensifying, signaling a growing crisis.



Marine heatwaves used to be rare and short-lived, but now they happen more often and last longer. 



Scientists from the <a href="https://www.mba.ac.uk" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Marine Biological Association</a> of the United Kingdom and other top universities around the world are warning that this is a serious problem. Rising ocean temperatures are putting <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ocean-warming-broke-records-for-450-straight-days/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">marine life</a> and entire ecosystems at risk.



The experts emphasize that rising ocean temperatures are dangerous for sea life, disrupt weather, and hurt coastal communities - and the problem is getting worse.



The question now is, are we equipped to alter the ocean's course before its too late?



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-rising-marine-heatwaves">Rising marine heatwaves</h2>



For years, warnings about steadily rising <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ocean-warming-broke-records-for-450-straight-days/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ocean temperatures</a> have been reported by researchers, environmentalist groups, and media outlets globally. 



Initially, this appeared to be an occasional rise in warmth, a localized anomaly. Now, however, the statistical evidence tells a different tale.



Between 2023 and 2024, the frequency of marine heatwaves escalated to 240% above previous records, an alarmingly steep increase. These prolonged heatwaves pose a substantial hurdle for ecosystems to bounce back.



Coral reefs bleach, kelp forests vanish, and food chains break down. This phenomenon is not just about current changes, but also about the irreversible damage that these events leave behind.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ripple-effects-from-ocean-to-land">Ripple effects: From ocean to land</h2>



Warmer oceans do not confine their effects to the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/astonishing-global-heat-in-january-2025-defied-climate-expectations/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">marine environment</a>. The heat triggers storms of increasing intensity - as seen in Cyclone Gabrielle that hit New Zealand in 2023, claiming 11 lives. This example serves as a harsh reminder of how warmer waters fuel severe weather events.



Furthermore, beneath the surface, marine life grapples with their struggles. Several marine animals like whales and dolphins are forced to venture nearer to the shore in search of food, risking themselves to stranding. 



On the other hand, certain species like mussels held hostage in overheated waters, find themselves dying in millions, leading to the collapse of entire food webs.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-struggle-of-the-coral-reefs">Struggle of the coral reefs</h2>



Coral reefs, the vibrant underwater cities, are among the ecosystems that bear the brunt of marine heatwaves. 



White, bleached corals aren't just aesthetically jarring, but also signal the death of corals. With the loss of corals, entire marine communities break down, causing biodiversity to take a nosedive.



Scientific observations have seen coral reefs' <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/climate-change-is-draining-nutrients-from-the-oceans-surface/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">distress</a> before, but never at this scale. Once a reef collapses, its recovery can take decades - if rebounding is even possible. Each heatwave leaves behind a decimated reef, with little time for recovery.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-tackling-marine-heatwaves">Tackling marine heatwaves</h2>



Conservation groups are tirelessly working to protect endangered species, restore damaged reefs, and establish marine sanctuaries. 



However, these efforts only address the symptoms, not the cause. The actual issue arises from the atmosphere, which traps heat due to the increasing greenhouse gas emissions.



The theoretical solution, to cut emissions and slow the warming allowing the ocean to recover, is simple. However, implementing it is a daunting task.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-severe-economic-consequences">Severe economic consequences </h2>



Surging sea temperatures have severe financial consequences aside from the ecological damage. Coastal communities, particularly those dependent on fishing and tourism, are experiencing the impact. 



Warmer waters disrupt fish populations, forcing commercial fisheries into a crisis. Additionally, coral reef tourism is dwindling as vibrant reefs turn into lifeless graveyards.



Stronger storms and frequent flooding are damaging buildings, roads, and other structures along coastlines. As a result, insurance costs are rising, and in some places, homes and businesses can no longer be insured. 



If we ignore marine heatwaves now, fixing the damage later will cost even more.



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



Though government policies and corporate changes are primary drivers in reducing emissions, individual contributions are equally powerful. 



Consciously reducing energy usage, endorsing sustainable seafood, voicing out for <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/mapping-marine-heatwaves-to-understand-their-impacts/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">climate action</a> collectively contribute towards making a difference.



The future of our oceans hangs in the balance. The choices we make today will decide whether marine ecosystems disintegrate or flourish.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41558-025-02269-2" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature Climate Change</a>.&nbsp; 



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Scientists warn of an alarming rise in marine heatwaves

The ocean is a vast and interconnected expanse that sustains...

Dungeness crab, Pacific herring, and red abalone are among the coastal species that appear most vulnerable to climate risks such as rising ocean temperatures, acidification, and deoxygenation.&nbsp;



The susceptibility of these species to environmental stressors could have significant consequences for local economies and cultural traditions that rely on healthy fisheries.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-species-vulnerability-to-climate-risks">Species vulnerability to climate risks</h2>



In a new paper titled “A Collaborative Climate Vulnerability Assessment of California Marine Fishery Species,” researchers have outlined which animals are most threatened by predicted changes in the state’s coastal waters.&nbsp;



The study was led by Timothy Frawley, an assistant project scientist at <a href="https://ims.ucsc.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">UC Santa Cruz’s Institute of Marine Sciences</a> and assistant professor at UC Davis’s Department of Wildlife, Fish, and Conservation Biology.



The research aims to assist the <a href="https://wildlife.ca.gov/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">California Department of Fish and Wildlife</a> (CDFW) in developing “climate-ready” management strategies for commercial and recreational fisheries.



By detailing how different species respond to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/global-fisheries-threatened-by-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">environmental shifts</a>, the team hopes to lay a foundation for policies that can better adapt to and mitigate climate-related challenges.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-economically-important-fisheries">Economically important fisheries</h2>



“The results are striking,” said Frawley, who spent five years as a commercial fisherman before earning a PhD in marine biology. “Some of California’s most economically and culturally important fisheries are assessed as being among the most vulnerable to projected future environmental changes.”



For <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/marine-protected-areas-improve-well-being-in-coastal-communities/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">coastal communities</a>, the threat goes beyond ecology - it touches on livelihoods. The iconic Dungeness crab fishery, for instance, delivers more than 8,200 tons annually, yielding over $45 million for local economies in a typical season.&nbsp;



While this crab fishery remains robust, others have not fared as well. Red abalone, once generating an estimated $24 to $44 million in recreational value per year, has been off-limits since 2018.&nbsp;



Meanwhile, Pacific <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/rapid-evolution-in-the-baltic-sea-how-herring-became-fish-eaters/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">herring</a> in San Francisco Bay - once the basis of a thriving commercial fishery - have seen biomass drop by over 75%, forcing many fishers to abandon the trade entirely.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-shifting-species-in-a-warming-climate">Shifting species in a warming climate</h2>



“While overall across the Northeast Pacific, a species like Pacific Herring may do OK, try telling that to a herring fisherman based out of San Francisco Bay. If their resource moves hundreds of miles away, it’s a big deal to them,” Frawley explained.&nbsp;



“It’s important to do these assessments at a scale that provides results that will be practical at the local level. So in that respect, this represents a step forward.”



Such local-level nuance is crucial, since some species may simply relocate northward as waters warm. For example, market squid - currently a mainstay of the state’s fisheries - could shift offshore or to cooler regions off Oregon or Washington, undercutting California-based fleets.&nbsp;



By contrast, certain warm-water fish like Pacific bonito might expand their range into the California Current, potentially offering new fishing opportunities.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-species-sensitivity-to-climate-risks">Species' sensitivity to climate risks</h2>



To determine which species face the greatest climate risks, the study evaluated 34 fish and invertebrates for their vulnerability over two periods: 2030-2060 and 2070-2100.&nbsp;



The researchers focused on both sensitivity (biological attributes such as reproductive rates, habitat preferences, and susceptibility to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ocean-acidification-is-spreading-into-deeper-waters/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">acidification</a>) and exposure (projected ocean conditions, including temperature, salinity, upwelling, subsurface oxygen levels, and sea-level rise).



These factors were combined to rank species into four categories - blue (lowest vulnerability), yellow, orange, and red (highest vulnerability).&nbsp;



Dungeness crab, red abalone, Pacific herring, pink shrimp, and Pismo clam were among those ultimately placed in the red zone over the longer term, with ocean acidification, sea-level rise, and other compounding challenges expected to intensify.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-red-abalone-and-a-changing-coast">Red abalone and a changing coast</h2>



Among the most concerning examples is red abalone, a bottom-dwelling mollusk highly susceptible to marine heatwaves. Because it has limited mobility and depends on stable kelp habitats for food, any extreme temperature swings or shifts in ocean chemistry can devastate its populations.&nbsp;



The fishery’s closure in 2018 was a stark indicator of how vulnerable benthic species can be, and the new study reinforces the urgency of monitoring and protective measures.



Market squid, contributing an estimated $43.9 million annually, and spiny lobster, worth around $10.7 million, also show cause for concern. Ensuring that these high-value fisheries can adapt may require both policy interventions and collaborative planning with industry stakeholders.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-supporting-coastal-communities">Supporting coastal communities</h2>



“My experience working as a fisherman has inspired me to focus my work as a marine scientist on supporting coastal communities by providing them with information required to better navigate risk and uncertainty,” Frawley said.&nbsp;



“My time at sea impressed upon me the links and feedbacks between environmental variability and change and marine-resource-dependent industries and communities, as well as an appreciation for fisheries as a team sport.”



Though the public often views fishing as fiercely independent, Frawley explained that it requires a complex network.&nbsp;



“To make the gears turn, it requires a team of individuals working together on deck, groups of boats sharing information; dock workers and truck drivers to unload and transport the product; buyers and processors to package and market it; and managers and scientists to set the harvest levels and ensure that operations are sustainable."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-anticipating-changes-to-protect-fisheries">Anticipating changes to protect fisheries </h2>



In highlighting the most at-risk species, this study provides a vital roadmap for the California Department of Fish and Wildlife as it works to develop adaptive measures. 



Possible strategies include flexible harvest regulations, real-time monitoring of populations, and broad collaboration among scientists, fishers, and policymakers.



While shifts in ocean conditions are already underway, the ability to anticipate change is essential for managing fisheries so they remain viable in the decades to come.&nbsp;



With clear evidence that climate change is already reshaping marine environments, proactive planning could mean the difference between a future of thriving coastal economies or dwindling opportunities for fishermen and seafood lovers alike.



The research was conducted in close collaboration with fisheries scientists at the <a href="https://www.noaa.gov/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration</a> (NOAA), the <a href="https://www.nature.org/en-us/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature Conservancy</a>, and the <a href="https://opc.ca.gov/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">California Ocean Protection Council</a>.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://journals.plos.org/climate/article?id=10.1371/journal.pclm.0000574" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">PLOS Climate</a>.



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Economically important marine species face high climate risks

Dungeness crab, Pacific herring, and red abalone are among the...

When sea otters returned to islands along Southern California and British Columbia, researchers saw kelp forests revive. These forests had been wiped out by unchecked sea urchin populations. However, the speed of recovery varied by location, leaving scientists searching for answers.



A new study from <a href="https://www.colorado.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">CU Boulder</a> sheds light on this puzzle. It confirms that sea otters, a keystone species, help kelp forests grow back, but their impact depends on interactions with other marine species. The researchers analyzed decades of data to map changes in ecosystems over time.



“We always thought keystone species control their <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/forests-are-still-fighting-climate-change-against-all-odds/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ecosystem</a> the same way, regardless of where they are or what else is in the ecosystem,” said Ryan Langendorf, lead author of the paper. 



“A more modern view is that they are still very important, but they can have different effects in different places.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-role-of-sea-otters-in-forest-health">Role of sea otters in forest health</h2>



Scientists have been studying keystone species - animals that have a big impact on their environment - for a long time. One of these scientists, Jim Estes, spent his career researching sea otters. He discovered that sea otters play a key role in keeping kelp forests healthy.



Otters eat sea urchins, which are animals that feed on kelp. When there aren’t enough otters, sea urchins multiply and eat too much kelp. This destroys kelp <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/forests-are-more-resilient-to-change-than-we-thought/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">forests</a>, turning them into empty underwater areas with little life. 



But when otters are present, they keep the urchin population under control, allowing kelp forests to grow and support many marine species.



To understand this better, Estes and scientist Jane Watson studied what happened when sea otters were brought back to areas where they had disappeared. 



They focused on two locations: Nicolas Island in California and Vancouver Island in British Columbia. Over 30 years, they collected detailed data to see how sea otters influenced their surroundings. 



Before otters were reintroduced, both locations had too many sea urchins, and the kelp forests had almost disappeared. Their research provided strong evidence that sea otters are crucial for maintaining a balanced ecosystem.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-different-rates-of-recovery">Different rates of recovery</h2>



The data showed that while kelp forests recovered in both locations, British Columbia saw much faster regrowth. 



In this region, the return of sea otters triggered a clear chain reaction: otters ate sea urchins, allowing kelp forests to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/forests-play-an-overlooked-role-in-the-climate-system/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">flourish</a>. However, in California, recovery was slower, revealing gaps in understanding.



To explore these differences, Langendorf developed a new model that visualized species interactions over time. This model functioned like a movie, capturing how different species influenced one another across decades.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-complex-web-of-interactions">Complex web of interactions</h2>



The model provided a clearer picture of what slowed kelp recovery in Southern California. In this region, species interactions were more complex. 



Unlike in British Columbia, where otters had a strong effect on urchins, California’s ecosystem had additional competition among different species. This weakened the direct influence of sea otters on the system, slowing the pace of recovery.



“Almost all studies of ecological communities assume that these interaction strengths are static – that ‘the rules of the game’ don’t change even as the abundances of species do,” said Dan Doak, a professor of environmental studies at CU Boulder. 



“By developing a way to estimate these changing rules, Ryan has added to our appreciation of this particular system, as well as pioneering a more powerful way to understand other <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/forests-rich-tree-diversity-adapt-better-changing-climate/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ecological systems</a>.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-lessons-from-otters-and-forests">Lessons from otters and forests</h2>



This study introduces a method that can help researchers understand how ecosystems change when species are reintroduced. By analyzing long-term data, scientists can predict how different species interact in shifting environments.



“The dynamic nature of ecosystems has long kept ecologists from understanding what species need and how best to manage them,” Langendorf said. 



“Being able to turn common survey data into a movie of species reacting to changes in their <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/future-forests-which-tree-species-can-survive-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">environment</a> and each other feels like renewed hope for a field that more than ever needs to offer useful advice about how to help the many complex living systems we live with and cherish.”



This approach could provide insights into conservation efforts worldwide, helping scientists protect and restore fragile ecosystems.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.pnas.org/doi/10.1073/pnas.2413360122" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences</a>.



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Sea otters help kelp forests recover, but there's more to the story

When sea otters returned to islands along Southern California and...

The ocean isn’t just a vast expanse of blue - it’s alive, constantly shifting, breathing, churning, and now weakening in critical ways. The Atlantic Meridional Overturning Circulation (AMOC), a colossal conveyor belt of warm and cold water, keeps weather patterns in check, stabilizes temperatures, and even dictates rainfall in distant corners of the world.



But now, this large system of currents in the Atlantic Ocean is weakening and slowing down. And that could spell disaster.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-delicate-balancing-act">A delicate balancing act</h2>



Think of the AMOC as Earth’s natural <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/critical-ocean-current-may-be-more-stable-than-previously-thought/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">climate regulator</a>. It moves warm water from the tropics up toward Europe, keeping winters there milder than they otherwise would be. 



Meanwhile, colder water flows back south, helping maintain equilibrium. This system is ancient, powerful, and - until recently -remarkably reliable. Now, something is shifting. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-unsettling-signs-of-weakening-ocean-currents">Unsettling signs of weakening ocean currents </h2>



Scientists have observed an unusual cooling area in the North Atlantic, often called a "cold blob." This is unexpected because, as the planet warms, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/collapse-of-main-atlantic-ocean-circulaton-current-amoc-is-already-happening/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ocean</a> temperatures should generally rise, not drop.



This cold patch suggests a deeper problem linked to the Gulf Stream, which is a key part of the AMOC. The Gulf Stream normally carries warm water northward, but if it slows down or weakens, less warm water reaches the region, causing unexpected cooling.



The effects of this disruption go beyond the ocean. It can change wind patterns, shift where and how much rain falls, and make extreme weather - like storms, droughts, and heatwaves - more frequent and severe. 



These changes can impact agriculture, infrastructure, and daily life worldwide.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-price-of-a-weakening-amoc">Price of a weakening AMOC</h2>



A team of researchers from the University of Hamburg's Cluster of Excellence for Climate Research (<a href="https://www.cliccs.uni-hamburg.de" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">CLICCS</a>) and the <a href="https://mpimet.mpg.de/en/homepage" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Max Planck Institute for Meteorology</a> has taken a closer look at the potential consequences. 



Their conclusion? The economic toll of a weakened AMOC could run into trillions of euros by the end of the century.



This isn’t just about changes in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/atlantic-current-system-may-collapse-by-2037/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ocean temperature</a>. A sluggish AMOC means more heatwaves, longer droughts, fiercer storms. Infrastructure will buckle, food systems will strain, and insurance costs will skyrocket.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-science-behind-ocean-current-weakening">Science behind ocean current weakening</h2>



The AMOC relies on the sinking of dense, salty water in the North Atlantic to keep its cycle going. 



But as Arctic ice melts, massive amounts of freshwater pour into the ocean. This dilutes the salt levels, making the water less dense. When that happens, the sinking slows, and so does the AMOC.



And it’s not just about the ocean’s movement. With less water being pulled into the depths, more carbon dioxide lingers in the atmosphere. That means more heat trapped leading to more <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/atlantic-and-arctic-mixing-is-crucial-for-earths-climate-stability/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">climate chaos</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-flawed-assumptions-costly-mistakes">Flawed assumptions, costly mistakes</h2>



For years, some economic models suggested that a weaker AMOC might actually help cool the Northern Hemisphere, acting as a counterweight to global warming. That assumption no longer holds.



"Our findings indicate that previous studies on AMOC weakening most likely underestimated the economic impacts," noted Felix Schaumann, a climate economist and co-author of the study.



In other words, what seemed like a potential silver lining is, in reality, another storm cloud forming on the horizon.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-predicting-the-future">Predicting the future</h2>



To understand what’s coming, the researchers used climate and economic models to simulate different scenarios. They compared a world where the AMOC stays strong to one where it weakens at various rates.



The results weren’t encouraging. The weaker the AMOC, the less carbon the ocean absorbs, and the faster climate change accelerates. The cost of inaction? Staggering.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-chain-reaction-of-consequences">Chain reaction of consequences</h2>



A weakened AMOC doesn’t just affect temperatures. It throws entire ecosystems off balance.



Fisheries that rely on predictable ocean currents could collapse. Crops accustomed to steady rainfall patterns may wither under unexpected droughts. Coastal communities will face rising sea levels, while storms become more violent and erratic.



Each of these effects compounds the next. The economy, already under pressure from rising global temperatures, will strain even further.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-crossroads-for-policy">A crossroads for policy</h2>



There’s no easy fix. But there are choices to be made.



Slowing carbon emissions is the most immediate step. Investing in renewable energy, strengthening coastal defenses, and improving climate resilience in vulnerable regions are no longer optional - they’re essential.



The AMOC has existed for thousands of years, shaping life as we know it. If it falters, the world will feel the consequences. The question now is whether we act before it's too late.



The Atlantic Meridional Overturning Circulation isn’t just another <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/disastrous-climate-changes-of-the-last-ice-age-could-happen-again/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">climate variable</a>. It’s the backbone of the planet’s climate system. If AMOC weakens, the effects will be widespread, costly, and potentially irreversible.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.pnas.org/doi/10.1073/pnas.2419543122" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences</a>.



Image Credit: CEN Climate Visualization Laboratory



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Weakening ocean currents could cost trillions of dollars

The ocean isn’t just a vast expanse of blue -...

Plastic pollution has long been a concern in oceans, rivers, and soil, but a new study reveals its presence in an unexpected place - the lungs of birds.



Tiny plastic particles drifting through the air are making their way into the respiratory systems of birds, raising concerns about how deeply plastic contamination has infiltrated ecosystems.



The study, conducted by researchers at the <a href="https://www.uta.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Texas</a> at Arlington, highlights how widespread <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ocean-plastics-linked-to-disability-risks-for-coastal-residents/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">microplastics</a> have become in the environment. 



Scientists have been increasingly worried about the impact of these pollutants, not just on wildlife but also on human health.



The air people breathe and the food they consume may contain more plastic than previously thought.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-birds-as-living-environmental-sensors">Birds as living environmental sensors</h2>



Shane DuBay, an assistant professor of biology at UTA and co-author of the study, explained why birds were chosen for the research. 



"Birds serve as important indicators of environmental conditions," said Professor DuBay. "They help us understand the state of the environment and make informed decisions about conservation and pollution control."



Birds live everywhere, from busy cities to quiet forests, so they are useful for studying pollution. Since they travel long distances, scientists can see how pollution spreads across different areas.



Birds share many spaces with humans, which means that their exposure to airborne <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/plastic-treaty-is-a-historic-opportunity-to-stop-a-human-health-crisis/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">microplastics</a> may indicate similar risks for people.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-plastic-contamination-in-bird-lungs">Plastic contamination in bird lungs</h2>



To understand the extent of plastic contamination in bird lungs, the researchers examined 56 wild birds from 51 different species.



All specimens came from the Chengdu Tianfu International Airport in western China. The location provided a controlled setting where birds from various backgrounds interacted with human-made environments.



Scientists extracted lung samples and performed chemical tests to detect microplastics and even smaller nanoplastics. One method, laser direct infrared technology, helped count microplastic particles lodged in the lung tissue. 



Another method, pyrolysis gas chromatography-mass spectrometry, identified nanoplastics that could enter the bloodstream through inhalation.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-shocking-levels-of-plastic-detected">Shocking levels of plastic detected</h2>



The results of the study were alarming. Scientists found large amounts of tiny <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/plastic-pollution-is-changing-the-entire-earth-system/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">plastic particles</a>, known as microplastics, inside the lungs of birds.



On average, each bird species had about 221 plastic particles in their lungs. When measured by weight, the researchers found 416 plastic particles per gram of lung tissue. The most common types of plastic were chlorinated polyethylene, used for coating wires and pipes, and butadiene rubber, which is found in car tires.



This means plastic is not just polluting water and soil - it is also floating in the air. If birds are breathing in these tiny plastic pieces, it raises concerns about what might be happening to humans.



People live in the same environments as birds, especially in cities. If birds are inhaling plastic, humans likely are too - without even knowing it.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-risks-of-airborne-plastic-in-birds">Risks of airborne plastic in birds</h2>



There is no set rule for how much <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/the-interlinked-crisis-of-plastic-pollution-and-global-warming/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">plastic</a> in the lungs is considered safe. However, past research has shown that breathing in tiny plastic particles may cause serious health problems.



Scientists think inhaling plastic could lead to lung diseases, heart problems, and even cancer. Persistent exposure to plastic might also affect fertility and weaken the immune system.



Once plastic gets inside the body, it can build up in tissues, possibly causing long-term damage or inflammation. Some plastics also contain harmful chemicals that could interfere with how the body works.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-growing-plastic-crisis">Growing plastic crisis</h2>



Professor DuBay emphasized the urgent need to combat plastic pollution before it causes irreversible damage.



"Our research highlights an urgent need to address plastic pollution in our environments, as these contaminants can have far-reaching impacts on ecosystem health, as well as human health," he said.



The study makes one thing clear - plastic waste isn’t just piling up in landfills or floating in the ocean. It’s in the air, drifting unseen, finding its way into the lungs of both birds and humans. Cutting back on plastic pollution is no longer just an environmental goal - it’s an urgent necessity.



Scientists need more research, more funding, more answers. How much plastic is truly in the air? What long-term damage does it cause? Until these questions are answered, the best step forward is simple: stop the spread before it gets worse.



The study is published in the <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0304389425001864?via%3Dihub" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Journal of Hazardous Materials</a>.



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Birds are breathing in plastic - what does that mean for us?

Plastic pollution has long been a concern in oceans, rivers,...

Nature has always been a source of life, inspiration, and wonder. From the towering elephants of Africa to the tiniest insects in the rainforests, wildlife plays a vital role in maintaining the planet's balance. Yet, human activities have pushed many species toward extinction. 



World Wildlife Day, celebrated annually on March 3, serves as a poignant reminder of our responsibility to protect nature.



This global event not only highlights the beauty of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/animals-change-their-daily-schedules-when-tourists-are-watching/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">wildlife</a> but also raises awareness about the threats it faces. More importantly, it calls for urgent action to save endangered species and preserve ecosystems.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-origins-of-world-wildlife-day">Origins of World Wildlife Day</h2>



Established by the United Nations in 2013, World Wildlife Day commemorates the signing of the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (<a href="https://cites.org/eng" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">CITES</a>) in 1973. 



CITES is a global agreement that regulates the trade of wild animals and plants to ensure their survival.



The day serves as a powerful reminder of the urgent threats facing wildlife. Poaching, deforestation, and pollution have already led to the extinction of many species. 



Some, like the dodo bird and the Tasmanian tiger, are lost forever. Others, such as rhinos and sea turtles, remain critically endangered.



By dedicating a day to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/world-wildlife-conservation-day-2024-saving-species-from-extinction/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">wildlife conservation</a>, the world acknowledges that nature's survival is directly linked to human well-being. Healthy ecosystems provide food, medicine, clean water, and air. 



Protecting wildlife is not just about saving animals - it is about preserving life itself.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-theme-for-world-wildlife-day-2025">Theme for World Wildlife Day 2025</h2>



Each year, World Wildlife Day adopts a specific theme to address pressing <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/global-wildlife-threats-can-be-identified-using-ai-technology/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">conservation challeng</a><a href="https://www.earth.com/news/global-wildlife-threats-can-be-identified-using-ai-technology/">es</a>. In 2025, the theme is "Wildlife Conservation Finance: Investing in People and Planet." 



This theme emphasizes the critical need for innovative financial solutions to protect our planet's biodiversity.



Financing wildlife conservation has become increasingly important as traditional funding sources prove insufficient. Innovative approaches, such as payments for ecosystem services and wildlife credits, generate revenue for landowners and communities managing wildlife resources. 



These financial mechanisms not only support conservation efforts but also promote sustainable livelihoods for local communities.



By focusing on conservation finance, the 2025 theme highlights the importance of investing in both people and the planet. It calls for stronger partnerships between governments, businesses, organizations, and local communities to create sustainable funding models for <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/we-can-prevent-future-pandemics-by-protecting-nature/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">wildlife</a> protection. 



​World Wildlife Day emphasizes that conservation efforts should be effective and equitable, benefiting both nature and humanity.&nbsp;​



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-wildlife-and-ecological-balance">Wildlife and ecological balance</h2>



Wildlife is essential to the survival of the planet. Each <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/un-report-disturbing-details-about-the-state-of-earths-wildlife/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">species</a> contributes to a delicate balance that keeps ecosystems healthy. Predators control prey populations, ensuring that no single species dominates. 



Herbivores help shape landscapes by consuming plants and dispersing seeds. Pollinators, such as bees and butterflies, ensure that crops and flowers reproduce.



The loss of even a single species can have disastrous consequences. For instance, when wolves were removed from Yellowstone National Park, deer populations exploded, leading to overgrazing and habitat destruction. 



Similarly, the decline of sea otters due to hunting resulted in an increase in sea urchin numbers, damaging kelp forests. These examples illustrate the interconnectedness of all life.



Wildlife also benefits human societies in ways many people may not realize. Numerous plants and animals provide ingredients for medicines. 



Scientists have studied frogs to develop painkillers, sharks to improve human immune systems, and plants to treat cancer. Without biodiversity, medical discoveries would be limited.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-conservation-success-stories">Conservation success stories</h2>



World Wildlife Day highlights that, despite challenges, dedicated conservation programs have enabled species like the California condor and Louisiana black bear to rebound from the brink of extinction.



The giant panda, once considered endangered, has rebounded due to habitat restoration in China. Conservationists have worked tirelessly to protect bamboo forests and establish breeding programs. Today, panda populations are growing, proving that conservation efforts can work.



Similarly, India's Project Tiger has helped <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/indias-wild-tigers-are-thriving-with-smart-conservation-efforts/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">increase tiger populations</a> after decades of decline. Strict anti-poaching laws and the creation of protected reserves have provided these big cats with a safe habitat. The country's tiger population has nearly doubled in recent years, a significant victory for wildlife conservation.



Marine conservation has also made progress. Humpback whales, once heavily hunted, have increased in numbers due to international bans on whaling. Similarly, sea turtle nesting sites have been protected, allowing their populations to stabilize.



These stories demonstrate that with commitment, funding, and global cooperation, species can be saved. They offer a glimmer of hope for other endangered animals still fighting for survival.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-human-impact-on-wildlife">Human impact on wildlife</h2>



Human activities remain the most significant threat to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/animal-tracking-is-crucial-for-preserving-biodiversity/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">wildlife</a>. Forests are cleared for agriculture, destroying habitats and displacing animals. Plastic waste in oceans kills marine life. Poaching continues to threaten species like rhinos, elephants, and pangolins.



Climate change adds another layer of danger. Rising temperatures disrupt migration patterns and alter ecosystems. Coral reefs, home to 25% of marine species, are dying due to ocean warming. Arctic ice is melting, making it harder for polar bears to find food.



​If these threats are not addressed, the world could lose thousands of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/human-wildlife-overlap-is-rapidly-rising-across-the-globe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">species</a> in the coming decades. World Wildlife Day emphasizes that extinction is not just a loss of animals - it signifies a profound disruption of natural balance. ​



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-individuals-can-help-protect-wildlife">How individuals can help protect wildlife</h2>



Everyone can play a role in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/social-media-is-helping-save-wild-animals-like-caracals/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">protecting wildlife</a>. Supporting conservation organizations through donations or volunteer work helps fund crucial projects. Many groups work on the front lines, rescuing animals, restoring habitats, and educating communities.



Simple lifestyle changes also make a difference. Reducing plastic use prevents waste from harming marine life. Avoiding products linked to deforestation, such as palm oil, helps protect forests. Choosing sustainably sourced seafood supports ocean health.



​Education is another powerful tool.&nbsp;World Wildlife Day initiatives, such as school programs and community events, play a crucial role in raising awareness about endangered species and their importance, encouraging people to take action.&nbsp;​



Sharing knowledge through social media, attending wildlife events, or participating in conservation projects helps spread the message.



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World Wildlife Day 2025: A global call to protect nature

Nature has always been a source of life, inspiration, and...

Deep in the Golden State, a new manzanita shrub species has been discovered, but its survival already teeters on the brink - threatened by the relentless spread of urbanization.



The manzanita, a shining symbol of California's diverse flora, is known for its twisted branches and the incredible resilience it shows in the face of wildfire challenges.



With more than 60 <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/californias-native-wildflowers-can-be-restored-by-raking-dead-grass/">species native</a> to the state, this group of shrubs and small trees plays a crucial role in local ecosystems, providing food and shelter for wildlife.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-nipomo-mesa-s-native-treasure">Nipomo Mesa's native treasure</h2>



Researchers have now identified a new species of manzanita to add to the iconic collection. Discovered along the central coast, it has been named Arctostaphylos nipumu to recognize the Nipomo Mesa, where it was found, and to honor its Indigenous heritage.



Amy Litt, a plant biologist at the <a href="https://www.ucr.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of California Riverside</a>, expressed her surprise at finding a new species in a highly urbanized district.



"We weren’t expecting to find a new species in such a developed area. But as we examined the plants, we realized the Nipomo Mesa plants were quite distinct. We were subsequently able to show that they not only look different but are genetically unique," noted Litt.



This manzanita species sports a distinct, shaggy grey bark, which differentiates it from the emblematic red bark found on most of its Californian relatives.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-unique-adaptations-of-manzanitas">Unique adaptations of manzanitas</h2>



Manzanita species are not just visually striking but also ecologically specialized, with remarkable adaptations that help them thrive in California’s harsh, fire-prone climate.



Their waxy, evergreen leaves minimize water loss, while deep roots tap into underground moisture reserves, which allows them to endure <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/megadroughts-are-becoming-more-frequent-and-severe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">prolonged droughts</a>.



Unlike most chaparral plants, manzanitas don’t resprout following a fire. Instead, their hard-shelled seeds require intense heat or smoke exposure to break dormancy and germinate, ensuring their regeneration in fire-swept landscapes.



Beyond their resilience, manzanitas serve as ecological keystones, offering nectar-rich flowers to pollinators like bees and hummingbirds, while their nutrient-dense berries sustain a variety of other birds and mammals.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ecological-significance-of-manzanitas">Ecological significance of manzanitas</h2>



Manzanitas contribute to the biodiversity of California and play a crucial part in native ecosystems as sources of food and habitat for wildlife.



The historical value of manzanitas is entrenched in Indigenous tribal culture. Their berries are a source of food, their leaves are harvested for medicine, and their wood provides material for tools and firewood.



The recently discovered A. nipumu is no exception, and adds to the rich and iconic floral legacy of the state.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-new-manzanita-will-fight-for-survival">New manzanita will fight for survival</h2>



However, the survival of this manzanita species is already under threat due to the impending urban development unleashed by the Dana Reserve Project. 



This recently approved housing development could potentially destroy much of the habitat where this species is located - threatening half of this plant's fragile <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/using-light-to-identify-plant-populations/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">population</a>.



Researchers, including plant geneticist and study co-author Bill Waycott, have alerted local officials to the potential ecological repercussions of the development plans. 



The discovery of A. nipumu has prompted environmental organizations such as the California Native Plant Society to emphasize the ecological significance of the Nipomo Mesa.



These concerns are further amplified by the fact that, like many manzanitas, A. nipumu relies on fire for seed germination. However, its inability to<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/native-wildflowers-that-thrive-after-fire-are-facing-new-challenges/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"> resprout after wildfires</a> due to the lack of a protective burl makes it especially vulnerable.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-habitat-restoration-and-genetic-diversity">Habitat restoration and genetic diversity</h2>



Tito Abbo, co-author of the study and graduate student in the Litt lab, pointed out the difficulties associated with <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/restoring-wildlife-habitats-may-prevent-the-next-pandemic/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">restoring habitats</a>.



Abbo explained that the reintroduction of native species is often facilitated using nursery stock that does not have the same genetic diversity as the wild relatives. Such plants are more vulnerable to disease and environmental stress.



“When you propagate from just a few individuals, you have a limited pool of genetic diversity and potentially less variation in natural plant defenses,” explained Abbo.



With the looming threat of urban expansion, unique habitats like the Nipomo Mesa are faced with destruction. Once their habitats are lost, they are near impossible to restore fully.



The future of A. nipumu remains uncertain, but its official recognition marks a crucial first step, paving the way for essential discussions and efforts toward its preservation.



The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://phytokeys.pensoft.net/article/139172/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">PhytoKeys</a>.



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Urban growth threatens newly discovered manzanita species

Deep in the Golden State, a new manzanita shrub species...

Alzheimer’s disease is among the many health threats linked to air pollution - an ever-present and often invisible killer that claims up to seven million lives prematurely each year.



These lethal particles don’t just harm the lungs and heart; their effects extend far beyond, infiltrating the brain and contributing to neurological disorders.



A new study from <a href="https://www.scripps.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Scripps Research</a> has confirmed a strong correlation between air pollution and various brain diseases, including Alzheimer’s and autism.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-unmasking-the-effects-of-air-pollution">Unmasking the effects of air pollution</h2>



The researchers unraveled the intricate link between brain cell activity and a chemical modification that might be triggered by a range of factors.



These factors include inflammation, aging, and environmental pollutants linked to air pollution, pesticides, processed food, and smoke from wildfires.



The experts found that this chemical modification, S-nitrosylation, interferes with normal <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/brain-cell-origins-traced-to-creatures-that-lived-800-million-years-ago/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">brain cell</a> function. In particular, it prevents brain cells from forming new connections, eventually causing cell death.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-new-hope-for-alzheimer-s-treatment">New hope for Alzheimer's treatment</h2>



The research, published in February 2025, presents a breakthrough revelation.



Interfering with S-nitrosylation in a pivotal brain protein showed visible signs of reversing <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/flavanols-a-key-to-slowing-age-related-memory-loss-in-the-brain/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">memory loss</a> symptoms in Alzheimer's mouse models and human-derived nerve cells.



“We’ve revealed the molecular details of how pollutants can contribute to memory loss and neurodegenerative disease. This could ultimately lead to new drugs that block these effects to better treat <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/traffic-related-air-pollution-might-increase-alzheimers-risk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Alzheimer's disease</a>,” noted Stuart Lipton, the senior author of the study.



Lipton, who serves as a clinical neurologist and holds the Step Family Foundation Endowed Chair at Scripps Research, first discovered S-nitrosylation more than two decades ago. 



He explained that this chemical process happens when a molecule bound to nitric oxide (NO) combines with sulfur atoms within proteins to create "SNO," changing their functionality. This leads to what Lipton described as a "SNO-STORM" in the brain. 



The buildup of NO occurs naturally in the body and is produced in response to inflammation or electrical stimulation. 



However, NO can also be formed excessively due to small particulate materials and nitrate-related compounds that are found in or triggered by air pollution, wildfire smoke, pesticides, or processed meats.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-role-of-proteins-in-the-brain">The role of proteins in the brain</h2>



In their latest study, the researchers probed deeper into the impact of S-nitrosylation on a protein known as CRTC1.



This protein plays a significant role in controlling genes responsible for establishing and sustaining connections between brain cells - crucial for the learning process and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-does-our-brain-form-long-term-memories/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">long-term memory</a> retention.



The research confirmed that excess NO leads to S-nitrosylation of CRTC1, which then prevents the protein from binding with another vital brain protein, CREB. 



This disruption hinders the stimulation of other necessary genes for forming neuronal connections.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-new-target-to-prevent-alzheimer-s">A new target to prevent Alzheimer’s </h2>



Following these discoveries, the team went a step further and genetically engineered a version of CRTC1 that was resistant to S-nitrosylation. 



When introduced into human nerve cells derived from Alzheimer’s patient stem cells, this modified version demonstrated promising potential.



Signs of Alzheimer's disease, including nerve cell connection deterioration and reduced nerve cell survival, were prevented. 



In Alzheimer’s mouse models, this re-engineered version of CRTC1 revived the activation of genes vital for memory formation and synaptic plasticity - enhancing the brain's ability to reinforce neuronal connections.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-reversing-the-impacts-of-air-pollution">Reversing the impacts of air pollution</h2>



These findings offer crucial insights into how the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/indoor-plants-can-quickly-remove-dangerous-toxins-from-air/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">toxins</a> we breathe in from our environment, particularly vehicular pollution and wildfire smoke, accelerate brain aging and Alzheimer's through S-nitrosylation.



“We could nearly completely rescue molecular pathways involved in making new memories. It suggests that this is a druggable target that could make a real difference in treating Alzheimer’s and potentially other neurological diseases,” said Lipton.



The study further highlights why Alzheimer's risk heightens with age. As age progresses, the body's antioxidant defenses weaken, leading to increased inflammation and higher NO levels; this makes proteins more susceptible to harmful S-nitrosylation reactions.



The research has unmasked the silent havoc that S-nitrosylation inflicts on countless proteins throughout our bodies.



“We’re learning that S-nitrosylation affects numerous proteins throughout the body, but reversing just some of these changes - like those on CRTC1 - could have a significant impact on memory function,” concluded Lipton.



The full study was published in the journal Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences.



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How air pollution fuels Alzheimer’s and brain disease

Alzheimer’s disease is among the many health threats linked to...

Heatwaves aren’t just a seasonal inconvenience anymore. They’re longer, hotter, and deadlier than ever before. Millions feel their effects, from power outages to hospital visits. 



But beyond the obvious effects of extreme heat - dehydration, heat stroke, and exhaustion - there’s something more insidious happening beneath the surface:&nbsp;accelerated aging.



A new study from the <a href="https://gero.usc.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">USC Leonard Davis School of Gerontology</a> suggests extreme heat may be speeding up the aging process at the biological level.



It is well documented that extreme temperatures can strain the body, but now, there’s growing evidence that prolonged heat exposure might make people age faster. If true, climate change isn’t just a crisis of weather - it’s a crisis of time itself.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-heat-changes-the-aging-process">How heat changes the aging process</h2>



Aging isn’t just about counting birthdays. A person’s chronological age tells one story, but their biological age? That’s the real measure of health. 



Biological age reflects how well cells, tissues, and organs function. When it’s higher than chronological age, disease risks increase, and life expectancy drops.



Jennifer Ailshire, senior author of the study, explained that people living in hotter regions tend to experience faster biological aging than those in cooler areas. Scientists have suspected heat plays a role in declining health, but its direct link to aging has been unclear.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-link-between-heat-and-aging">Link between heat and aging</h2>



To investigate, the researchers examined data from over 3,600 individuals aged 56 and older, all participants in the Health and Retirement Study.



Over a six-year span, scientists collected blood samples, analyzing them for epigenetic changes - chemical modifications that influence how genes behave. One major process in this field is DNA methylation, which can switch genes on or off without altering the genetic code itself.



Study co-author Eunyoung Choi noted that the team used epigenetic clocks to monitor these molecular shifts. These clocks detect methylation patterns and estimate biological age.



The researchers then compared biological <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/organ-aging-can-predict-diseases-decades-in-advance/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">aging rates</a> with historical heat index data from 2010 to 2016, uncovering a strong correlation.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-counts-as-extreme-heat">What counts as "extreme heat"?</h2>



The National Weather Service defines extreme heat using the heat index - a combination of temperature and humidity.



Extreme heat is broken down into three categories. The "Caution" level ranges from 80°F to 90°F. The "Extreme Caution" category spans 90°F to 103°F. The most dangerous level, simply called "Danger," starts at 103°F and goes up to 124°F.



This study included all three levels, examining how frequent exposure to each affected <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/scientists-discover-a-protein-that-reverses-cellular-aging/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">biological age</a>. More days of extreme heat meant faster aging at a cellular level. 



The pattern remained strong even after adjusting for lifestyle choices, income, and other demographic factors.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-heat-exposure-alters-aging">Heat exposure alters aging</h2>



Where a person lives plays a crucial role in how heat impacts them. Some regions endure long stretches of brutal temperatures, and the effect on residents' <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ai-can-detect-if-your-brain-is-aging-too-quickly/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">biological aging</a> is staggering.



"Participants living in areas where heat days, as defined as Extreme Caution or higher levels (≥90°F), occur half the year, such as Phoenix, Arizona, experienced up to 14 months of additional biological aging compared to those living in areas with fewer than 10 heat days per year," Choi said. 



"Even after controlling for several factors, we found this association. Just because you live in an area with more heat days, you're aging faster biologically."



To confirm their findings, the researchers used three different epigenetic clocks - PCPhenoAge, PCGrimAge, and DunedinPACE. 



All pointed to the same conclusion: heat exposure accelerated aging over one to six years. PCPhenoAge even detected changes within weeks or months.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-older-adults-have-a-greater-risk">Older adults have a greater risk</h2>



Ailshire emphasized that older adults face even higher risks. The study factored in the heat index instead of just air temperature, which proved critical. Humidity can worsen heat’s effects by making it harder for sweat to evaporate, leaving the body struggling to cool down.



"It's really about the combination of heat and humidity, particularly for older adults, because older adults don't sweat the same way. We start to lose our ability to have the skin-cooling effect that comes from that evaporation of sweat," said Ailshire.



"If you’re in a high humidity place, you don’t get as much of that cooling effect. You have to look at your area’s temperature and your humidity to really understand what your risk might be."



Since older adults sweat less, they are more prone to heat exhaustion and heatstroke. Prolonged exposure to extreme temperatures may also compromise immune function, increasing vulnerability to illness.



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



The study raises new questions about how heat reshapes health over time. Scientists aim to pinpoint additional factors that increase vulnerability to heat-driven aging. 



They also want to explore whether this accelerated aging process is reversible - or if it permanently alters long-term health outcomes.



Beyond research, the findings signal a need for immediate action. Cities and policymakers may need to rethink urban infrastructure. More shaded walkways, cooling stations, and heat-resistant building designs could become necessities, not luxuries.



Ailshire believes that ignoring the issue is not an option. "If everywhere is getting warmer and the population is aging, and these people are vulnerable, then we need to get really a lot smarter about these mitigation strategies."



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.science.org/doi/10.1126/sciadv.adr0616" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Science Advances</a>.



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Extreme heat can accelerate aging at a cellular level

Heatwaves aren’t just a seasonal inconvenience anymore. They’re longer, hotter,...

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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...

<div class="wp-block-sendtonews-playerselector">[sendtonews key="EjmSP20gQK-2593093-12187" type="single"]</div>



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



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



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



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



Video Credit: NASA Goddard&nbsp;



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



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Remote sensing will revolutionize the way we monitor trees

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



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



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



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



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



Video Credit: ESA&nbsp;&nbsp;



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



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Lesotho: Africa's "Kingdom in the Sky"

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



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



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



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



Video Credit: NASA Goddard



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



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Wetlands are a major source of methane emissions

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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The rapid retreat of the Columbia Glacier

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



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



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



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



Video/ Image Credit: NASA Goddard



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



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2022 illustrated the consequences of a warming climate

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



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



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



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



Video Credit: NASA Goddard&nbsp;



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



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Satellites reveal how Earth's systems are interconnected

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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Tiger sharks are shifting poleward as temperatures rise

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



Video Credit: ESA&nbsp;



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



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Melt ponds on the Greenland Ice Sheet

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



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



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



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



Video Credit: ESA



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



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Tracking changes in Earth's water cycle

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



Video Credit: NASA Goddard&nbsp;



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



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Mysterious "spoke season" captured on Saturn

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Today’s Video of the Day from <a href="http://www.ntu.edu.sg/">NTU Singapore</a> reveals that some plants can remove toxic heavy metals from soil.&nbsp;



The researchers analyzed samples of various tropical plant species to test for levels of heavy metals and metalloids. The study showed that there are existing plants with high levels of these contaminants, which means that these species are great candidates for drawing pollutants out of the soil.&nbsp;



Among the plants examined in the study, 12 species had accumulated several types of heavy metals and metalloids. These plants are widely available, including species that are native to Singapore.



“In a small nation like Singapore, land may be repurposed to support new development plans, so it is important that we have a green and sustainable way to remediate land that is contaminated," said Professor Lam Yeng Ming.



"We set out to uncover how to better make use of tropical plants to do phytoremediation and through advanced characterization techniques, we showed how some of these tropical plant species can be an environmentally friendly and literally a 'green' way to remove contaminants in soil."&nbsp;



"Phytoremediation also has benefits of cost effectiveness, simplicity of management, aesthetic advantages, and long-term applicability and sustainability. The strategy prevents erosion and metal leaching by stabilizing or accumulating heavy metals, so that helps reduce the risk of contaminant spread.”



Video Credit: NTU Singapore



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



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Plants help remove heavy metals from contaminated soil

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Today’s Video of the Day from the <a href="https://www.acs.org/">American Chemical Society</a> describes why herbicides are not as effective in killing weeds anymore. In the 20th century, chemical companies developed thousands of herbicides. The most commonly used herbicide was glyphosate, which was introduced in 1974.



Over the past few decades, dozens of species of weeds have evolved resistance to glyphosate. Depending on the site of action, the part of the plant that an herbicide interacts with, weeds may even be resistant to herbicides that have not been developed yet.&nbsp;



With increasing resistance to glyphosate and other herbicides, weeds are - once again - becoming a major concern for farmers.&nbsp;



Video Credit: American Chemical Society&nbsp;



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



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Weeds are becoming increasingly resistant to herbicides

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Today’s Video of the Day from the <a href="https://www.jpl.nasa.gov/">NASA Jet Propulsion Laboratory</a> (JPL) describes a dust storm on Mars that was nearly twice the size of the United States. As the storm covered the southern hemisphere of the planet, some of NASA’s explorers had to delay their normal activities.



NASA’s Insight lander put itself in a "safe mode" for 11 days to conserve battery power because solar power was disrupted by the dust. The Ingenuity Mars Helicopter postponed flights until conditions improved.



"A fleet of NASA orbiters monitor Martian dust storms like this one and serve as lifelines to Earth by relaying data from the rovers and lander on the ground back to the team. This includes the Mars Reconnaissance Orbiter, MAVEN, and Odyssey," reports JPL.



"Dust storms like this recent one start close to the ground and are spread by wind as they rise – warming the cold Martian atmosphere."



The images in the video were captured by NASA’s Curiosity as the dust rolled in. A fleet of orbiters monitored the dust storm from above, relaying data from Mars’ explorers back to scientists on Earth.



Video &amp; Image Credit: NASA/JPL-Caltech/ASU/MSSS



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



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NASA monitors giant dust storms on Mars

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Today's Video of the Day from the <a href="http://www.esa.int/">European Space Agency</a> features Qeshm Island in the Strait of Hormuz. This strait provides the only sea passage from the Persian Gulf to the open ocean.



Qeshm is separated from the Iranian coast by the Clarence Strait, also known as Khuran.&nbsp;The Hara Forest Protected Area is a network of shallow waterways and forest located between the island and the mainland. This protected region is home to sea turtles, snakes, and more than 150 species of migrating birds.



Qeshm is famous for its wide range of&nbsp;ecotourist&nbsp;attractions, such as the&nbsp;Hara marine forests. According to environmentalists, about 1.5 percent of the world birds and 25 percent of Iran's native <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/female-hummingbirds-avoid-sexual-harassment-by-looking-like-males/">birds</a> annually migrate to the forests, which are the first national geo park in Iran.



Tourists are also drawn to the island to see an age-old Portuguese&nbsp;fort, historic mosques, the&nbsp;Seyyed Mozaffar&nbsp;and&nbsp;Bibi Maryam&nbsp;shrines, and the "Valley of Stars."



The average temperature on the island is 81 degress and the region is often hot and humid. From June to August, the island is described as being oppressively hot. The ideal time to visit is during the winter season. 



Video Credit: ESA&nbsp;



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



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Qeshm Island in the Strait of Hormuz

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Today’s Video of the Day from the <a href="https://www.esa.int/">European Space Agency</a> features Inhambane Bay in southeast Mozambique.&nbsp;



"Inhambane Bay is a deep inlet into which the small Mutamba River flows," says ESA. "On one side of the bay lies the historical city of Inhambane, capital of the Inhambane Province, while the sister city of Maxixe, the economic capital of Inhambane, sits across from it. The province is the second largest grower of cashews, after Nampula, and it also produces coconut and citrus fruits."



The beaches of Barra and Tofo are popular with tourists. There are also coral reefs along the long coastline of Inhambane, making it an ideal destination for scuba diving and snorkeling.



"Mozambique’s extensive coastline heightens the country’s vulnerability to tropical cyclones that develop in the Indian Ocean as well as storm surge flooding," says ESA.



"More than half of the population lives in low lying coastal areas, putting communities at risk. Inhambane Bay was dangerously close to where Cyclone Idai made landfall in 2019 causing widespread destruction to the country."



Video/ Image Credit: ESA



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Inhambane Bay in southeast Mozambique

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Today’s Video of the Day from the <a href="https://www.esa.int/">European Space Agency </a>&nbsp;features the Kangerlussuaq Glacier, one of the largest tidewater outlet glaciers in Greenland. The glacier is located on the east coast of the Greenland ice sheet.



As human-induced climate change continues to drive up temperatures, global ice loss is accelerating at an alarming rate. ESA reports that, over the past decade alone, 3.5 trillion tons of ice have melted from the Greenland ice sheet. This is enough to cover the UK with meltwater 15 meters deep.



Based on satellite imagery, researchers determined that Kangerlussuaq entered a new phase of rapid retreat and acceleration in 2017. In their study, published in <a href="https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/feart.2019.00123/full">Frontiers in Earth Science</a>,&nbsp; the experts report that the glacier's ice front is now at its most retreated position since the early 20th century.



"Given Kangerlussuaq’s previous impacts on both the magnitude and pattern of ice sheet wide mass loss, we predict that its new phase of retreat, acceleration and thinning will markedly enhance the south-east region’s contribution to increasing discharge from the ice sheet," wrote the study authors.&nbsp;&nbsp;



"More broadly, accurate forecasting of the ice sheet’s contribution to sea level rise will require a deeper understanding of, and responses to, these non-linear ice dynamic processes."



Video Credit: ESA



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Kangerlussuaq Glacier on the Greenland ice sheet

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Today’s Video of the Day from the <a href="https://www.esa.int/">European Space Agency</a> describes the complex relationship between ocean and climate. ESA's Climate Change Initiative will help us understand how oceans influence the climate and how climate change is impacting the oceans.&nbsp;



"Earth’s oceans are huge heat stores, soaking up 93% of the excess heat from human activity over the past 70 years. Ocean currents redistribute heat around the planet, from the Equator to the poles. Where this ocean heat goes influences weather patterns and regional climate," explains ESA.



"As well as absorbing heat, oceans are a natural carbon sink, absorbing a quarter of carbon dioxide emissions from human activity. This has led to the acidification of ocean water, threating marine life."



The amount of heat and carbon dioxide soaked up by the ocean depends on specific variables, including phytoplankton, temperatures, waves, salinity, and ice cover. Satellites can be used to measure these variables from space.



"From their unique vantage point, satellites provide key information for understanding the complexities of our planet and monitoring environmental issues," says ESA.



Video Credit: ESA



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



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Ocean heat influences regional climate

[sendtonews key="uwirCufwYv-2012371-12187" type="single"] Today’s Video of the Day from the...

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Today’s Video of the Day from the <a href="https://www.esa.int/">European Space Agency</a> describes the importance of monitoring the shape of the sea surface, which is constantly changing. These observations have many applications, such as ship routing, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/the-modem-ocean-is-a-tough-place-for-whales-to-survive/">ocean</a> current forecasting, and debris tracking.



"A project supported by the Discovery element of ESA’s Basic Activities recently investigated a new technique to measure sea surface topography very precisely," reports ESA.



"The technique involves looking at satellite navigation (GNSS) signals that have been reflected off of the sea surface at very low angles. At these so-called grazing angles, waves and surface roughness have very little impact on the reflection process; the sea surface acts as a very smooth mirror."



Estel Cardellach is the principal investigator at the Institute for Space Studies of Catalonia, who first submitted the idea for the project.



“In a mirror-like reflection the phase of the signal can be tracked – it is continuous," said Cardellach. "Different surface heights result in different phase measurements. It gives a very precise measurement of the surface altitude at a few centimetres’ precision.”



The researchers developed a GNSS receiver and set up an experiment in the Balaeric Islands to collect signals from the receiver that were reflected off the sea surface. Ultimately, these signals will provide improved measurements of the shape of the sea surface.



Image/ Video Credit: ESA



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

Monitoring the dynamic shape of the sea surface

[sendtonews key="JrMLDXHmjl-1911953-12187" type="single"] Today’s Video of the Day from the...

Aerial,Photo,Of,River,In,Amazon,Rainforest,Jungle,In,Peru

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Today’s Video of the Day from <a href="https://www.nasa.gov/goddard">NASA’s Goddard Space Flight Center</a> describes how scientists are using autonomous sound sensors to monitor deforestation in the Amazon. By recording soundscapes, the experts can determine which animals are present through their distinct sounds.&nbsp;



Using this method, sounds can be used as scientific measurements to analyze the effects of deforestation. The researchers will gain a better understanding of how the acoustics of a forest can be used to measure its health.&nbsp;



"From space, parts of the Amazon rainforest that have previously been logged or burned may look lush and green, like a place buzzing with activity and full of sounds. But inside the rainforest, the animal life may tell a different story, of a harsh environment and a quieter soundscape," says NASA.



Video Credit: NASA’s Goddard Space Flight Center&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

Monitoring deforestation in the Amazon through sounds

[sendtonews key="u0TYxxqfF7-2186404-12187" type="single"] Today’s Video of the Day from NASA’s...

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