The world watches as the Great Salt Lake, one of Earth's largest saline lakes, deteriorates. 



Over the past 30 years, the lake has lost a staggering 15 billion cubic yards (11.4 billion cubic meters) of water. It has grown shallower at the rate of 4 inches (10 cm) each year.



This rapid depletion isn't a natural mystery. Decades of unsustainable water diversion, combined with increasing demand and a changing climate, have pushed the lake to a breaking point.



Agriculture is a major contributor to this dire situation, particularly in the case of livestock feed crops.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-rapid-depletion-of-great-salt-lake">Rapid depletion of Great Salt Lake </h2>



A recent study published in the journal Environmental Challenges reveals a shocking statistic. Approximately 62% of the river water heading towards Great Salt Lake gets diverted for human usage.



Agricultural activities are the primary culprits, accounting for nearly three-quarters of the water diverted.



“The research highlights the alarming role of water consumption for feeding livestock in driving the lake’s rapid depletion," explained William Ripple, a professor of ecology at <a href="https://oregonstate.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Oregon State University</a> and co-author of the study.



Almost 80% of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/agricultural-water-scarcity-is-about-to-get-much-worse/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">agricultural water</a> use is for irrigating alfalfa and hay crops - the primary feed for livestock.



This level of diversion not only depletes the lake's vital inflows but also raises questions about the long-term sustainability of current agricultural practices in the region.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-significance-of-great-salt-lake">Significance of Great Salt Lake</h2>



The importance of Great Salt Lake extends far beyond its beauty or agricultural use.



As one of the world's largest saline lakes, it plays important ecological, economic, cultural, and spiritual roles - all of which are in grave danger due to the dramatic <a href="https://www.earth.com/image/the-great-salt-lake-has-reached-historically-low-levels/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">decline in lake levels</a> during the past decades.



Data from the Utah Division of Water Resources shows a disturbing trend. From 1989 to 2022, consumption and evaporation consistently outpaced inflows from river water and precipitation.



This imbalance has created an annual deficit of approximately 500 million cubic yards (380 cubic meters), which has further accelerated the lake's decline.



The water budget has faced a persistent deficit for most of the past century. The situation has been exacerbated by the growing impacts of climate change and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/global-drought-has-caused-crisis-levels-of-food-and-water-scarcity/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">prolonged drought</a>, according to the researchers.



“Abnormally large <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/snowmelt-changes-may-greatly-affect-farmers-in-western-u-s/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">snowmelt</a> inflow during the 1980s and 1990s served to temporarily obscure the long-term decline in lake levels, and the lake actually reached its highest level in more than a century in 1987,” explained Professor Ripple. “But it has been dropping by roughly 4 inches per year on average since then.”



Great Salt Lake is the largest saline lake in the Western Hemisphere and ranks eighth globally. Its 21,000-square-mile drainage basin, which includes the Wasatch Mountains, relies heavily on snowfall for water replenishment.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-threats-from-declining-lake-levels">Threats from declining lake levels</h2>



Great Salt Lake is also a biodiversity hotspot, hosting over 10 million migrating birds and an estimated 350 different species of birds. These habitats are threatened by declining lake levels.



In addition, the lake creates $2.5 billion in annual economic activity. Recreation, mining, and the harvesting of brine shrimp support more than 9,000 jobs. As salinity levels increase, however, brine shrimp experience extreme stress.



Human health also suffers as the Lake shrinks, with wind-carried <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/great-salt-lake-drying-up-causing-major-dust-pollution/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">dust from the exposed saline lakebed</a> causing a range of pulmonary problems.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-saving-great-salt-lake">Saving Great Salt Lake</h2>



To halt this alarming trend and start refilling the lake, a 35% reduction of human water consumption in the Great Salt Lake watershed by 35% has been proposed.



This includes a significant cut in irrigated alfalfa production, a fallowing of much of the region’s irrigated grass hay fields, and taxpayer-funded compensation for affected farmers and ranchers.



Conservation measures such as crop shifting, reducing municipal and industrial use, and leasing water rights from irrigators have also been proposed.



The impacts of these changes will be significant, and will affect as many as 20,000 farmers and ranchers in the basin. However, the situation presents an opportunity to set a precedent for addressing water scarcity globally.



“The economic and cultural adjustments required are significant but not insurmountable. With the right policies and public support, we can secure a sustainable future for the Great Salt Lake and set a precedent for addressing water scarcity globally,” concluded Professor Ripple.



The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://linkinghub.elsevier.com/retrieve/pii/S2667010024002312" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Environmental Challenges</a>.



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Great Salt Lake: Agriculture is draining a natural wonder

The world watches as the Great Salt Lake, one of Earth's largest saline lakes, deteriorates. Over the past 30 years, the lake has lost a staggering 15 billion cubic yards (11.4 billion cubic meters) of water. It has grown shallower at the rate of 4 inches (10 cm) each year. This rapid depletion isn't a natural mystery. Decades of unsustainable water diversion, combined with increasing demand and a changing climate, have pushed the lake to a breaking point. Agriculture is a major contributor to this dire situation,...

Why do koalas live in Australia while squirrels dominate similar climates in North America? A new study led by <a href="https://msu.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Michigan State University</a> highlights the crucial role of ancient geographic isolation in the evolution of mammals across the globe. 



The findings offer a deeper understanding of biodiversity and carry important implications for conservation efforts.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-is-geographic-isolation">What is geographic isolation?</h2>



Geographic isolation occurs when physical barriers such as mountains, rivers, or oceans divide a population of organisms into separate groups, preventing individuals from different groups from mating with each other. 



Over time, this lack of genetic exchange leads to the development of distinct species as each isolated population adapts to its own unique environment, undergoes genetic drift, or experiences different mutations. 



Geographic isolation is a key mechanism of allopatric speciation, where new species evolve in different geographical locations. 



This process plays a crucial role in biodiversity by contributing to the differentiation and evolution of species across the Earth's landscapes.



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



The Earth's crust is divided into several large and small tectonic plates that float on the semi-fluid asthenosphere beneath. 



Over millions of years, the movement of these plates has caused the continents to drift apart, collide, and even fracture, leading to the formation of mountains, oceans, and other geographical features. 



This process, known as plate tectonics, is a key driver of the Earth's dynamism and has profound implications for its biological diversity, especially the evolution of mammalian life.



The ancient splits and rearrangements of continents have significantly influenced the distribution and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/evolution-is-not-as-random-as-we-thought/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">evolution</a> of mammals.



"Today's ecology was not inevitable. If there were different isolating factors long ago, we might have vastly different ecosystems today," said Peter Williams, the lead researcher behind the study.



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



We know that environment plays a massive role in shaping the creatures around us. For example, polar bears with their thick white fur, perfectly adapted to their icy Arctic home. 



But Williams and his team highlight a less obvious factor that's been at play across the millennia: isolation.



Australia, for example, has been an island continent for millions of years. This isolation is why it's packed with marsupials like koalas and kangaroos, while the rest of the world has mainly placental mammals like squirrels and deer. 



Even those continents that may have similar climates today were once worlds apart in terms of mammal diversity.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-response-to-geographic-isolation">Response to geographic isolation</h2>



The study found that different types of mammals responded very differently to these geographical barriers. Let's look at three key players:



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-mammals-minus-bats-nbsp">Mammals (minus bats)&nbsp;</h3>



These were heavily influenced by Earth's shifting landmasses. Millions of years ago, continents were like giant life rafts, each carrying a unique set of mammals. 



As they drifted apart, the mammals on board evolved separately. 



Over immense stretches of time, these populations would become as distinct from each other as koalas, with their specialized eucalyptus diet, are from agile tree-climbing squirrels.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-birds">Birds</h3>



Birds tell a different story. Their ability to fly means they could overcome those land barriers way more easily. Think of a barn swallow that migrates vast distances. 



This constant mixing across continents means that bird communities worldwide are more alike than mammals, strongly influenced by things like climate and not so much by ancient geography.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-bats">Bats</h3>



Bats are the only flying mammals, and their story is unique. Unlike most other mammals, bats couldn't easily cross cold regions like the ancient land bridge that once connected Alaska and Siberia. 



This meant bats on different sides of the globe remained isolated for a very long time. It's why we have unique species like vampire bats in the Americas and fish-eating bats in Southeast Asia.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-why-does-geographic-isolation-matter">Why does geographic isolation matter?</h2>



Understanding how millions of years of isolation have shaped life on Earth has some pretty big implications for our world today.



"By understanding how historical isolation has shaped <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/bee-evolution-occurred-tens-of-millions-of-years-earlier-than-previously-believed/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">biodiversity</a>, we can gain valuable insights into the delicate balance of ecosystems and develop strategies for protecting biodiversity in regions with unique evolutionary histories," said Williams.



This research reminds us that the world wasn't always as interconnected as it is now. The researchers are keen to continue exploring how these <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/stone-tool-discovery-challenges-entire-theory-of-human-evolution/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ancient events</a> have molded the amazing variety of life around us. 



Study co-author Elise Zipkin noted: "In ecology, even hyperlocal problems need to incorporate regional, continental or even global processes."



It's a great reminder that our planet has a fascinating and complex history, and the ripples of events from millions of years ago are still felt in the ecosystems we encounter today.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://doi.org/10.1038/s41467-024-46757-z" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature Communications</a>.



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Ancient geographic isolation shaped the global evolution of mammals

Why do koalas live in Australia while squirrels dominate similar...

Understanding the interplay between climate change and wine production is increasingly becoming a focal point of scientific inquiry, given the susceptibility of viticulture to climatic variables such as temperature and rainfall.&nbsp;



A comprehensive review, collecting insights from over 250 studies conducted over the past two decades, has recently mapped out the shifting landscape of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/climate-change-may-boost-wine-production-in-the-uk/">winegrowing</a> regions under the influence of climate change.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-dual-nature-of-climate-change-nbsp">The dual nature of climate change&nbsp;</h2>



This study, conducted by a multidisciplinary team of experts in climate dynamics and viticulture led by the <a href="https://www.u-bordeaux.fr/en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Bordeaux</a>, examines the impact of climate change on wine production by taking into account temperature variations, precipitation changes, humidity shifts, solar radiation adjustments, and CO2 concentration fluctuations.



The synthesis of this extensive literature highlights the dual nature of climate change as both a threat and an opportunity for wine production.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-rising-temperatures-disrupt-the-balance-nbsp">Rising temperatures disrupt the balance&nbsp;</h2>



Traditionally, winegrowing regions have thrived in mid-latitude areas, where conditions were neither too hot for grape ripening nor too moist for diseases. However, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/earths-global-temperature-exceeded-2c-for-the-first-time/">rising temperatures</a>, a major characteristic of climate change, are currently disrupting this balance.&nbsp;



They not only hasten vine development and grape ripening, leading to earlier harvests - about two to three weeks sooner than four decades ago - but also alter <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/wine-grape-residue-may-be-very-beneficial-to-human-health/">grape composition</a>. This can result in wines with lower acidity, higher alcohol content, and modified aromatic profiles.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-major-reconfiguration-of-viable-wine-production-regions">Major reconfiguration of viable wine production regions </h2>



The scientists predict a major reconfiguration of viable winegrowing landscapes. "The suitability of current winegrowing areas is changing, and there will be winners and losers," wrote the researchers.



"New winegrowing regions will appear in previously unsuitable areas, including expanding into upslope regions and natural areas, raising issues for environmental preservation."



Regions currently celebrated for their wine production, such as parts of Spain, Italy, Greece, and southern California, might face challenges in maintaining high-quality wine production under economically sustainable conditions if global warming surpasses 2°C. This is primarily due to the anticipated increase in drought conditions and heatwaves.&nbsp;



Conversely, regions located in northern France, the United States (Washington and Oregon), Canada (British Columbia), and Tasmania in Australia might see an improvement in wine production quality or even emerge as new winegrowing territories, including Belgium, the Netherlands, and Denmark.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-emerging-diseases-and-extreme-weather">Emerging diseases and extreme weather</h2>



The study also warns of emerging <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/droughts-can-protect-vineyards-from-deadly-disease/">diseases</a>, pests, and the likelihood of extreme weather events becoming more common.&nbsp;



"The emergence of new pests and diseases and the increasing occurrence of extreme weather events, such as heatwaves, heavy rainfall and possibly hail, also challenge wine production in some regions," wrote the researchers. "In contrast, other areas might benefit from reduced pest and disease pressure."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-adaptation-remains-possible">Adaptation remains possible</h2>



Despite the challenges that arise from climate change, adaptation remains possible for regions where global warming remains below 2°C. Strategies like adopting drought-resistant grape varieties, optimizing <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/wild-birds-are-significantly-threatened-by-vineyard-fungicides/">vineyard</a> management to conserve soil moisture, and adapting vineyard designs could mitigate some impacts of climate change.&nbsp;



These adaptation measures, however, are contingent upon local conditions and the economic viability of the vineyards.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-wine-production-in-a-warning-world">Wine production in a warning world</h2>



The findings reaffirm the urgent threat climate change poses to traditional vineyards, while stressing the dangers of surpassing the&nbsp; 2°C threshold. Beyond this point, significant adaptations will be necessary globally to sustain wine production.&nbsp;



The study serves as a call to action for the wine industry, urging a shift towards more sustainable practices and a reconsideration of viticultural strategies in light of a warming world.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-maintaining-quality-is-a-priority-in-wine-production">Maintaining quality is a priority in wine production </h2>



“The most important aspect of wine production is the finished product. All adaptations to climate change must preserve the economic sustainability of production through maintaining adequate yields and quality that meet consumer demands," wrote the study authors.&nbsp;



"Working with the market and the consumers can be the biggest challenge, and sometimes highly effective adaptation options remain unused because of market constraints (for example new hybrid varieties and genetically modified varieties)."



"Marketing wine by the region of origin and not by the variety is a route to consumer’s acceptance of the use of less-known varieties, which might potentially be better adapted to the changing climate."



The study is published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1038/s43017-024-00521-5" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature Reviews Earth &amp; Environment</a>.



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Wine production in a warming world: Winners and losers

Understanding the interplay between climate change and wine production is...

Floods can devastate communities. Homes are lost, lives are changed, and the land is forever altered. We know rising waters cause extreme <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/can-we-outrun-the-flood-risks-of-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">floods</a>, but there's a lot more to the story. 



What lurks beneath the surface that turns a rainstorm into a catastrophe? A new study from the Helmholtz Centre for Environmental Research (<a href="https://www.ufz.de" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">UFZ</a>) reveals the complex interactions that drive extreme flooding.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-makes-a-flood">What makes a flood?</h2>



Think about the conditions leading up to a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/sinking-ground-amplifies-flood-risk-from-sea-level-rise/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">flood</a>. Yes, there's heavy rainfall, but there's often more at work:



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Air temperature</h3>



Warmer air can hold more moisture than cooler air. This is a basic principle of atmospheric science. When warm, moist air cools down, it can no longer hold as much water vapor, leading to condensation and precipitation. 



In the context of flooding, this means that periods of warm air can lead to increased evaporation and, subsequently, more significant rainfall. Additionally, warmer temperatures can exacerbate snowmelt, contributing further to potential flooding.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Soil moisture</h3>



The soil's moisture content plays a critical role in flood development. If the ground is already saturated from previous rainfall or snowmelt, it cannot absorb much more water. This condition is similar to a saturated sponge that can't hold any more liquid. 



When additional rain falls on saturated ground, the water runs off the surface instead of being absorbed, leading to increased runoff that can contribute to flooding. 



The capacity of the soil to absorb water is influenced by its composition, vegetation cover, and the presence of urban surfaces, which are less permeable than natural landscapes.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Snow depth</h3>



In regions with significant snowfall, the depth of snow accumulated over the winter can be a pivotal factor in spring <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/hidden-flood-risks-plague-the-us-housing-market/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">flooding</a>. 



Rapid snowmelt, driven by sudden warm temperatures or rain, can release large volumes of water into rivers and streams in a short period. This sudden influx of water can exceed the carrying capacity of the waterways, leading to overflow and flooding in surrounding areas. 



Snowmelt contributes to some of the most significant flooding events in mountainous and northern regions.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Time</h3>



The intensity and duration of rainfall are critical in flood formation. A short, intense downpour may lead to flash flooding, especially in urban areas where the ground surface is largely impermeable. 



Conversely, prolonged rain over several days can saturate the ground and fill rivers, leading to more extensive flooding. 



The timing and rate of precipitation, combined with the other factors mentioned, determine the immediate impact on the landscape and the potential for flooding.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-factors-that-cause-extreme-flood">Factors that cause extreme flood</h2>



The UFZ team analyzed over 125,000 flood events across the globe and found that in most cases, there's not just one culprit. Over half of all floods involved precipitation teaming up with at least one more factor.



Additionally, the most extreme floods often had multiple drivers working together. Think of it like a supervillain team-up – the more villains, the more trouble.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-not-all-regions-are-affected-by-extreme-floods">Not all regions are affected by extreme floods</h2>



It turns out, where you live matters regarding flood risk. The UFZ team coined the term "flood complexity," which means how many different factors usually cause floods in the area. Here's the general idea:



<ul>
<li>Northern areas and the Alps tend to primarily have floods driven by snowmelt, regardless of how bad the flood gets.</li>



<li>Places with frequent rainy seasons, like the Amazon Basin, tend to have floods driven mostly by oversaturated soil.</li>



<li>Regions with a mix of weather conditions, like Eastern Europe and the US West Coast, tend to have more complicated floods with a mix of causes.</li>
</ul>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-river-basin">River basin</h2>



How several factors come together depends on the unique characteristics of your area. Things like soil type, whether it's usually wet or arid, and even how steep the land is all play a role.



&nbsp;“In drier regions, the mechanisms that lead to flooding tend to be more heterogeneous. For moderate floods, just a few days of heavy rainfall is usually enough. For extreme floods, it needs to rain longer on already moist soils”, says lead author Dr Shijie Jiang, who now works at the Max Planck Institute for Biogeochemistry in Jena.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-understanding-extreme-flooding">Understanding extreme flooding</h2>



The UFZ scientists didn't just analyze data; they developed new analysis methods using something called explainable machine learning. They can be used to:



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Improve extreme flood predictions</h3>



The ability to accurately predict floods is paramount in safeguarding human lives, properties, and ecosystems. 



With advancements in technology and research, flood prediction models have become more sophisticated, incorporating a variety of data sources and methodologies:



<h4 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-hydrological-and-meteorological-data">Hydrological and meteorological data</h4>



Modern prediction models use real-time data on rainfall, river levels, soil moisture, and other relevant factors. By analyzing this data, scientists can forecast the likelihood of flooding with greater accuracy.



<h4 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-remote-sensing-and-satellites">Remote sensing and satellites</h4>



The use of satellite imagery allows for the monitoring of snowpack, the extent of floodwaters, and changes in land use that may affect flooding. 



This broad perspective is crucial for assessing risk and predicting floods over large areas.



<h4 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-machine-learning-and-ai">Machine learning and AI</h4>



Artificial intelligence and machine learning algorithms can analyze vast datasets to identify patterns and predict flood events more accurately. These technologies can continually learn and improve, enhancing the precision of flood forecasts over time.



More accurate flood warnings enable governments, communities, and individuals to prepare more effectively. This can include evacuating vulnerable areas, reinforcing flood defenses, and securing property.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Protect communities</h3>



Knowledge of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/can-we-outrun-the-flood-risks-of-climate-change/">flood risks</a> and the implementation of strategies to mitigate these risks are crucial for community resilience. 



Protecting communities involves a combination of planning, infrastructure development, and public education:



<h4 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-resilient-infrastructure">Resilient infrastructure</h4>



Building flood defenses such as levees, floodwalls, and reservoirs can help protect communities from floodwaters. 



Additionally, designing infrastructure to withstand flood conditions ensures that essential services can continue during and after a flood event.



<h4 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-zoning-and-land-use-planning">Zoning and land use planning </h4>



By understanding the areas most at risk, planners can restrict development in high-risk zones and promote land use that reduces vulnerability to flooding. 



This includes preserving wetlands that can absorb <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/hurricane-flooding-poses-a-dangerous-threat-to-water-quality/">floodwaters</a> and implementing green infrastructure like rain gardens to manage runoff.



<h4 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-emergency-response-strategies">Emergency response strategies </h4>



Effective emergency planning and communication are critical in protecting communities during flood events. 



This includes having evacuation plans in place, ensuring that vulnerable populations receive assistance, and establishing clear communication channels for disseminating warnings and information.



Overall, floods are far more intricate than just "too much rain." By understanding the interplay of temperature, soil, snow, and precipitation patterns, we gain critical insights that could save lives and property.



The study is published in <a href="https://www.science.org/doi/10.1126/sciadv.adl4005" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Science Advances</a>.



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Extreme floods: What turns a rainstorm into a catastrophe?

Floods can devastate communities. Homes are lost, lives are changed,...

When scientists and policymakers decide on which regions to prioritize for conservation, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/global-biodiversity-crisis-is-actually-worse-than-we-thought/">biodiversity</a> is frequently their top consideration. The rationale is clear: ecosystems with higher biodiversity tend to support a broader range of species and offer a wider spectrum of ecosystem services, making them prime candidates for conservation.



However, the task of quantifying biodiversity is fraught with challenges. Various metrics offer different lenses through which the intricate interactions of life within ecosystems, such as forests, can be viewed, sometimes leading to conflicting interpretations of biodiversity's significance.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-measuring-forest-productivity">Measuring forest productivity </h2>



A recent study led by the <a href="https://www.floridamuseum.ufl.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Florida Museum of Natural History</a> has shed light on this issue through a detailed analysis of two decades' worth of data. This comprehensive review suggests that the most straightforward biodiversity metric - simply counting the total number of species within a specific area - provides the most accurate reflection of a forest's productivity.



"Ecosystem services provided by forests - including wildlife habitat, wood, fiber, and carbon storage - depend on forest productivity, the collective biomass growth of individual trees. Forest productivity is thought to increase with tree biodiversity, but there are many ways to quantify biodiversity, with little consensus on which measures are most important," wrote the study authors.



"Despite experimental and observational studies demonstrating that biodiversity enhances primary productivity, the best metric for predicting productivity at broad geographic extents - functional trait diversity, phylogenetic diversity, or species richness - remains unknown."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-biodiversity-metrics-and-forest-productivity-nbsp">Biodiversity metrics and forest productivity&nbsp;</h2>



“There aren’t many studies that look at the differences between measurements of diversity,” said lead author Yunpeng Liu, a postdoctoral associate at the Florida Museum. With access to an extensive database maintained by the <a href="https://www.fs.usda.gov/">U.S. Forest Service</a>,&nbsp;



Liu and his team set out to explore how different biodiversity metrics correlate with the productivity of forests across the eastern United States, drawing on nearly two million tree measurements from 23,145 forest plots collected between 2000 and 2020.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-forests-with-diverse-species-interactions-nbsp">Forests with diverse species interactions&nbsp;</h2>



The findings revealed a consistent trend: forests with a higher number of tree species, or <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/environmental-changes-put-a-cap-on-species-richness/">species richness</a>, demonstrated greater productivity. This aligns with the understanding that diverse species interactions within an ecosystem bolster essential services such as carbon sequestration and provide renewable resources like wood.



Contrary to initial expectations, the study found that measures of phylogenetic diversity (which tracks the evolutionary relationships among species) and functional diversity (which looks at the variety of structural and biological traits) were negatively correlated with productivity. This unexpected discovery complicates the narrative on how different dimensions of biodiversity influence ecosystem functionality.



However, as co-author Douglas Soltis (a distinguished professor with the Florida Museum of Natural History) argues: “These aren’t mutually exclusive measurements. They’re all ways that we might be able to make better conservation decisions.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ecosystem-resilience-and-productivity-nbsp">Ecosystem resilience and productivity&nbsp;</h2>



The study also ventured into the implications of these findings for ecosystem resilience and productivity. Co-author Robert Guralnick, curator of biodiversity informatics at the Florida Museum, admitted the uncertainties that still linger, highlighting the ongoing need for research into the dynamics of tree interactions and the traits that enable diverse forests to flourish.



Unfortunately, there is not enough information about various specific traits, such as the shape and depth of roots, to make accurate assessments. “It may also be that there are aspects of how <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/tree-species-diversity-shaped-by-climate-change-for-21000-years/">trees</a> of the same or different species structure their interactions with each other, especially as tree communities become more diverse, that we don't yet understand,” Guralnick added.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-valuable-insights-for-conservation-practices">Valuable insights for conservation practices</h2>



By illuminating the multifaceted role of biodiversity in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/forests-face-threats-from-multiple-industries/">forest health</a> and productivity, the study provides valuable insights for conservation practices. It particularly highlights the significance of species richness as a straightforward and reliable indicator for evaluating ecosystem health.&nbsp;



“It’s reassuring for other investigators and policymakers to know that species richness is reliable. This is especially important when making conservation decisions with short notice and limited data,” Soltis concluded.



The study is published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1073/pnas.2314231121" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences</a>.



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Species richness linked to forest productivity in the eastern U.S.

When scientists and policymakers decide on which regions to prioritize...

A new study led by the <a href="https://www.utm.utoronto.ca/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Toronto Mississauga</a> has examined how climate change might fundamentally alter the animal species populating North American cities. 



Shedding new light on the potential future shifts in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/small-greening-projects-can-dramatically-boost-urban-biodiversity/">urban biodiversity</a>, this research has major implications for the animals that city residents may encounter by the year 2100.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-biodiversity-landscape-of-us-and-canadian-cities">Biodiversity landscape of US and Canadian cities</h2>



Urban areas, teeming with life, offer residents the opportunity to connect with local biodiversity, ranging from birds in backyards to animals represented as local sports team mascots.&nbsp;



However, the experts warn that the biodiversity landscape of US and Canadian cities could undergo significant changes due to human-induced <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/scientists-climate-change-and-biodiversity-loss-are-one-indivisible-global-health-crisis/">climate change</a>, affecting over 2,000 animal species that have historically inhabited the 60 most populous cities in North America.



"Just like the California grizzly bear is extinct from where it is displayed prominently on the state flag, with climate change, the floodgates are open and many other emblematic species are at risk of extirpation from the communities they represent," noted the study authors.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-climate-change-causes-widespread-biodiversity-shifts">Climate change causes widespread biodiversity shifts</h2>



"Human experiences with nature are important for our culture, economy, and health. Anthropogenically-driven climate change is causing widespread shifts in biodiversity and resident urban wildlife are no exception," wrote the researchers.



"We modeled over 2,000 animal species to predict how climate change will impact terrestrial wildlife within 60 Canadian and American cities. We found evidence of an impending great urban shift where thousands of species will disappear across the selected cities, being replaced by new species, or not replaced at all."&nbsp;



"Effects were largely species-specific, with the most negatively impacted taxa being amphibians, canines, and loons. These predicted shifts were consistent across scenarios of greenhouse gas emissions, but our results show that the severity of change will be defined by our action or inaction to mitigate climate change."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-favorable-conditions-for-animal-species">Favorable conditions for animal species</h2>



The study leveraged data from online species distribution databases, primarily collected through citizen science initiatives, to compile records of terrestrial animal sightings across these cities.&nbsp;



Despite acknowledging potential inaccuracies in citizen-sourced data, the team employed machine learning techniques to forecast the most favorable conditions for each species under three different emissions scenarios by the end of the century.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-substantial-turnover-in-urban-biodiversity">Substantial turnover in urban biodiversity</h2>



The findings project a substantial turnover in urban biodiversity by 2100, affecting nearly all cities studied. Particularly, cities with a rich history of species diversity are expected to see significant declines, with minimal gains in new species.&nbsp;



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-cooler-cities-will-gain-more-animal-species">Cooler cities will gain more animal species</h3>



Geographical analysis predicts that cooler, wetter cities such as Omaha and Kansas City might welcome a surge of new species, with cities like Quebec, Ottawa, and Winnipeg potentially nearly doubling their current species count.&nbsp;



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-warmer-cities-will-lose-more-animal-species-nbsp">Warmer cities will lose more animal species&nbsp;</h3>



Conversely, warmer cities with high precipitation levels, like those in coastal California, may witness the largest exodus of species. Arid regions, exemplified by Phoenix and Albuquerque, might see less dramatic shifts, attributed to their ecosystems' inherent resilience.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-most-bird-and-insect-species-will-shift-to-new-urban-areas">Most bird and insect species will shift to new urban areas</h2>



Alarmingly, up to fifty-four species could disappear from the analyzed cities. A taxonomic breakdown reveals that over 95% of bird and insect species could see changes in their urban distribution.&nbsp;



Canines, most amphibians, and loons are among those anticipated to suffer the most significant losses, whereas turtles, mice, toads, and pelicans might become increasingly prevalent.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-noticeable-shifts-in-the-local-species-composition">Noticeable shifts in the local species composition</h2>



According to the researchers, residents who spend their lives in the same city will likely witness noticeable shifts in the local species composition.&nbsp;



While the study's predictions are based on models and necessitate further ecological validation, it emphasizes the crucial role of mitigating greenhouse gas emissions in preserving urban biodiversity.



“For people living in cities, the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/city-life-plant-animal-evolution/">animals</a> in their backyards and local green spaces are going to change significantly with climate change. Over the next few decades, familiar species will be leaving the city and new species will be entering it, forever changing the composition of urban animals,” the authors concluded.



The study is published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0299217" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">PLoS ONE</a>. 



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Thousands of animal species will soon vanish from cities

A new study led by the University of Toronto Mississauga...

A recent study led by the <a href="https://www.pik-potsdam.de/en/home" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Potsdam Institute for Climate Impact Research</a> (PIK) has found that healthy dietary shifts could play a significant role in supporting the objectives of the Paris Agreement on climate change. 



According to co-lead author Florian Humpenöder, a senior scientist at PIK, transitioning towards a more sustainable diet could substantially increase the feasibility of meeting the climate goals set by the Paris Agreement.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-greenhouse-gas-emissions-and-dietary-shifts">Greenhouse gas emissions and dietary shifts</h2>



"The reduction of greenhouse gas emissions related to dietary shifts, especially methane from ruminant animals raised for their meat and milk, would allow us to extend our current global CO2 budget of 500 gigatons by 125 gigatons and still stay within the limits of 1.5°C with a 50 percent chance," he explained.



The study underscores the importance of implementing policies that put a price on greenhouse gas emissions across the energy and land systems as a crucial measure to limit global warming to 1.5°C.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-sustainable-diets-reduce-greenhouse-gas-emissions">Sustainable diets reduce greenhouse gas emissions</h2>



“Our results show that compared to continued dietary trends, a more sustainable diet not only reduces impacts from food production within the land system, such as deforestation and nitrogen losses. It also reduces GHG <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/small-dietary-changes-could-offset-carbon-emissions/">emissions</a> from the land system to such an extent that it cuts economy-wide 1.5°C-compatible GHG prices in 2050 by 43 percent,” said study co-lead author Alexander Popp, leader of the working group land-use management at PIK.&nbsp;



"Moreover, healthy diets would also reduce our dependence on carbon dioxide removal in 2050 by 39 percent."



The study represents a pioneering effort to isolate the contribution of dietary changes alone to achieving the 1.5°C target, an area previously unexplored in existing research.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-dietary-shifts-and-climate-goals">Dietary shifts and climate goals</h2>



By incorporating dietary shifts towards the <a href="https://eatforum.org/eat-lancet-commission/the-planetary-health-diet-and-you/">EAT-Lancet Planetary Health Diet</a> into their models, the scientists highlight the potential of a flexitarian diet, which emphasizes a variety of plant-based foods, reduced consumption of livestock products, and limited intake of added sugars, to facilitate the transition to a more sustainable and healthy global diet.



However, there are considerable challenges that lie ahead in implementing these dietary changes.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-concerted-efforts-are-needed">Concerted efforts are needed</h2>



Effective decision-making in food policy is often complicated by the dispersion of responsibilities across various institutions, making it difficult to enforce coherent policies that promote healthy diets. Furthermore, ensuring social inclusion and providing adequate compensation are crucial for a just transition.



"The results indicate that a shift in our diets could make a considerable difference if we do not want to crash through the 1.5°C limit in the next 10 to 15 years. This calls for globally concerted efforts to support the transition towards <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/planet-friendly-foods-can-reduce-your-risk-of-mortality-by-25-percent/">sustainable healthy diets</a>,” concluded co-author Johan Rockström, the director of PIK.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-shifting-to-a-more-sustainable-diet-nbsp">Shifting to a more sustainable diet&nbsp;</h2>



Shifting to a sustainable diet involves making food choices that are not only healthier for you but also have a lower <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/planet-friendly-foods-can-reduce-your-risk-of-mortality-by-25-percent/">environmental impact</a>.&nbsp;



A sustainable diet typically emphasizes plant-based foods, such as fruits, vegetables, grains, nuts, and seeds, because producing these foods generally requires less water, land, and energy compared to animal-based products.&nbsp;



It also means opting for locally sourced and seasonal produce whenever possible to reduce the carbon footprint associated with transportation and storage.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-incorporating-more-plant-based-meals">Incorporating more plant-based meals</h3>



Incorporating more plant-based meals into your diet doesn't mean you have to become a vegetarian or vegan, but rather that you're consciously reducing the amount of animal products you consume.&nbsp;



This can be as simple as participating in "meatless Mondays" or choosing plant-based alternatives for some of your favorite dishes.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-choosing-organic-foods">Choosing organic foods</h3>



Choosing organic foods when possible is another aspect of a sustainable diet. Organic farming practices are designed to reduce pollution and conserve water and soil quality, although it's worth noting that the environmental benefits can vary based on the food and the location where it's grown.



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



Reducing food waste is also a crucial part of a climate-friendly dietary shift. Planning meals, buying only what you need, using leftovers creatively, and composting food scraps can significantly lessen your environmental footprint.



By making these dietary shifts, you're not only contributing to a more sustainable and equitable food system but also adopting habits that are better for your health. Transitioning to a sustainable diet can be a gradual process of making more conscious <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/many-people-are-unaware-that-food-choices-impact-the-environment/">food choices</a> that reflect both personal health goals and the well-being of the planet.



The study is published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1126/sciadv.adj3832" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Science Advances</a>.



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Healthy dietary shifts could keep global climate goals within reach

A recent study led by the Potsdam Institute for Climate...

Dust,Storm,Off,Western,Sahara.,.,Elements,Of,This,Image

We often dismiss springtime allergies as reactions to local pollen. Yet, something else might cause our sniffles and sneezes: a massive <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/sand-and-dust-storms-have-become-unpredictable-and-dangerous/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">dust storms</a> that originate thousands of miles away in Africa's Sahara region.



These gargantuan dust plumes travel the globe every summer, carrying a cocktail of pollutants and potential pathogens across continents.



Dr. Shankar Chellam, a <a href="https://www.google.com/search?client=safari&amp;rls=en&amp;q=Texas+A%26M+University&amp;ie=UTF-8&amp;oe=UTF-8" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Texas A&amp;M University</a> professor is leading the charge to understand the biological hitchhikers within dust storms. 



He and his team are working to determine what microbes, specifically bacteria and fungi, migrate with the dust and explore their potential impact on human health.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-hidden-passengers-in-sahara-dust">Hidden passengers in Sahara dust</h2>



"We all get allergies and potentially other more severe health effects when we breathe in dust, and it's not fully known as to what causes those allergies," said Dr. Chellam. 



"Some people may think it is just the sand or clay minerals in the dust. Others think it is the metals or organics in the dust, and then some think it's the bacteria and fungi."



The <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/sahara-dust-hurricanes/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Saharan dust</a> cloud carries vast amounts of sand particles that transport bacteria and fungi. 



Dr. Chellam's research uniquely addresses how Saharan dust storms introduce these microbes into North America.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-the-dust-storm-from-sahara-tells-us">What the dust storm from Sahara tells us</h2>



Dr. Chellam and his team analyzed samples from a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/nasa-satellites-are-monitoring-the-sahara-dust-cloud/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Saharan dust</a> event that reached Houston in 2018. They measured metals, bacteria, and fungi to investigate any connections.



Fascinatingly, their findings revealed strong links between the biodiversity of the microbes and specific elements, especially calcium. 



While these elements occur naturally in the Sahara, they also exist in our local environments. Pinpointing the exact origin of the dust and its cargo remains a challenge that scientists continue to tackle.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-our-air-not-as-empty-as-we-think">Our air - Not as empty as we think</h2>



Perhaps the most startling discovery is that even seemingly lifeless <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/antibiotic-resistant-bacteria-have-been-found-in-clouds/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">clouds</a> of dust brim with biological activity. 



"A key takeaway from this study is that a lot of biodiversity is not scientifically described. It doesn't have a name, it can't be cultured, and because it can't be cultured, it's difficult to study," explained Dr. Daniel Spalink, assistant professor at Texas A&amp;M.



The team's high-tech DNA analysis allowed them to create an inventory of bacteria and fungi, even if the microbes themselves weren't active. 



Surprisingly, they found traces of several pathogens known to cause disease in humans, as listed by the World Health Organization (<a href="https://www.who.int" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">WHO</a>).



"It doesn't tell us if they are going to be able to infect us and make us sick," Spalink cautions, "But at least the DNA of several pathogenic bacteria and fungi were identified in the African dust."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-impact-of-climate-change-on-sahara-dust">Impact of climate change on Sahara dust</h2>



Climate change is altering weather patterns globally. This transformation affects dust storm behavior, leading to variations in their frequency and intensity. 



In 2020, the United States experienced the most massive <a href="https://www.earth.com/image/sahara-dust-plume-moves-toward-europe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Saharan dust</a> storm ever recorded, which experts named "Godzilla." 



This event highlighted the potential for increasing occurrences of such dust invasions. "The whole dynamics of the Saharan dust coming to Houston is primarily driven by atmospheric processes," said Dr. Sourav Das, a former student of Dr. Chellam.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-global-connection-of-sahara-dust">Global connection of Sahara dust</h2>



Sahara dust storm travels far beyond the borders of North America, affecting global environmental systems in profound ways. 



This dust, originating from the vast Sahara Desert, embarks on transcontinental journeys that influence climate, ocean biology, and ecosystems far removed from its source. 



The Saharan dust plays a critical role in climate regulation. As it travels across oceans and continents, it reflects sunlight back into space, cooling the Earth's surface. 



This natural phenomenon acts as a counterbalance to the warming effects of greenhouse gases, showcasing how desert dust can influence global temperatures. 



However, the dust also carries microorganisms and nutrients, such as <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/lack-of-phosphorus-will-limit-growth-of-the-amazon-rainforest/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">phosphorus</a>, that fertilize remote ecosystems, from the Amazon rainforest to the Caribbean Sea, demonstrating nature's complex nutrient cycles.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-benefits-to-oceans">Benefits to oceans</h2>



Ocean biology benefits from the nutrient-rich dust as well. When Saharan dust settles on ocean waters, it delivers essential minerals that stimulate the growth of phytoplankton. 



These microscopic plants form the foundation of the oceanic food chain, supporting a diverse array of marine life. 



The influx of nutrients from the Sahara can thus boost marine productivity, affecting fish populations and the global fishing industry.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-disadvantages">Disadvantages</h2>



The impact of Saharan dust is not universally beneficial. In ecosystems unaccustomed to the influx of foreign particles and nutrients, the dust can disrupt local environments. 



For example, excessive dust deposition can smother coral reefs, blocking sunlight and hindering photosynthesis. This can stress coral ecosystems, leading to bleaching events and loss of biodiversity.



Moreover, the health implications of Saharan dust extend across continents. The dust carries not only nutrients but also pollutants and pathogens that can affect air quality and public health. 



Communities in the path of these dust plumes may experience increased respiratory issues, allergies, and diseases, highlighting the need for global health monitoring and preparedness.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-study-insights">Study insights</h2>



It's crucial to gather data across multiple <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/dust-storms-in-the-gulf-of-alaska-help-shape-the-global-climate/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">dust events</a>, spanning many years, to get a clearer picture of these airborne microbial communities and how they might transform over time.



While a lot remains unknown, research like this shines a spotlight on the hidden travelers swirling in the air we breathe -- travelers who might be affecting our health in surprising ways. 



The next time you catch a glimpse of a dust storm rolling in, remember the globe-trotting microbes it carries!



The findings of the study are published in <a href="https://pubs.acs.org/doi/10.1021/acs.est.3c04158" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Environmental Science &amp; Technology</a>.



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Sahara desert dust storms carry harmful bacteria and fungi around the globe

We often dismiss springtime allergies as reactions to local pollen....

Microplastics,In,Sand.,Soil,Contaminated,With,Microplastics.,Micro,Waste,In

Researchers have unveiled the presence of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/microplastics-discovered-in-every-human-placenta-tested-after-birth/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">microplastics</a> in archaeological soil samples, challenging long-held perceptions about the purity of ancient deposits. 



This disconcerting discovery, made by a collaborative effort between the universities of <a href="https://www.york.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">York</a> and <a href="https://www.hull.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Hull</a>, alongside <a href="https://yorkarchaeology.co.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">York Archaeology</a>, links environmental pollution directly to archaeological preservation.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-microplastics-are-everywhere">Microplastics are everywhere</h2>



<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/microplastic-pollution-found-in-every-aquatic-species-tested/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Microplastics</a> are tiny plastic fragments, measuring from one-thousandth of a millimeter to 5mm. They stem from a variety of sources, such as the disintegration of larger plastic items and resin pellets from manufacturing processes.



Initially, microplastics were believed to affect mainly oceans and rivers. However, finding these particles in ancient soil samples indicates a contamination that reaches far beyond, spanning both time and technology.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-windows-to-the-past-clouded-by-plastic">Windows to the past, clouded by plastic</h2>



Professor John Schofield of the University of York’s Department of Archaeology emphasized the implications of these findings. 



"This feels like an important moment, confirming what we should have expected: that what were previously thought to be pristine archaeological deposits, ripe for investigation, are in fact contaminated with <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/microplastic-exposure-linked-to-changes-in-the-brain/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">microplastics</a>," Schofield explained.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-reassessing-archaeological-preservation-from-microplastics">Reassessing archaeological preservation from microplastics</h2>



This revelation suggests that the preservation strategies for historical sites, which have favored in situ conservation for decades, may need reassessment due to the risk of contamination compromising the integrity of archaeological remains.



David Jennings, the Chief Executive of York Archaeology, reflected on the novelty of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/contamination-crisis-microplastics-found-in-88-of-protein-sources/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">microplastics</a> as a contemporary issue, citing their recent identification despite being a product of the post-war boom in plastic production. 



He noted, "This new study shows that the particles have infiltrated archaeological deposits," drawing a parallel to the gradual recognition of microplastics in oceans since the 1960s.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-contamination-of-historical-deposits">Contamination of historical deposits</h2>



The research team identified 16 types of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/microplastics-are-able-to-travel-thousands-of-miles-because-of-their-shape/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">microplastic polymers</a> in both contemporary and archived soil samples. 



This diversity highlights the extent of plastic pollution and its threat to the integrity and value of archaeological findings.



Jennings further elaborated on the risk posed by microplastics to well-preserved archaeological sites, such as the Viking finds at Coppergate. 



“The chemistry of the soil, altered by the presence of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/microplastics-found-in-clouds-may-be-affecting-the-weather/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">microplastics</a>, could accelerate the decay of organic materials, challenging the current practices of in-situ preservation,” he stated.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-microplastics-threaten-archaeological-integrity">How microplastics threaten archaeological integrity</h2>



In summary, the recent discovery of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/what-is-driving-the-surge-of-microplastics-found-in-the-arctic/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">microplastics</a> in ancient archaeological sites signals a critical juncture in our fight against pollution, underscoring its pervasive grip on both our environment and historical legacy. 



This revelation challenges us to rethink preservation strategies and intensify our research efforts to understand the full impact of these contaminants on our past. 



As archaeologists and environmental scientists join forces to address this issue, the urgency to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/biodegradable-breakthrough-plastics-that-wont-make-us-sick/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">find solutions</a> that can protect our cultural heritage from the insidious spread of microplastics grows ever more apparent. 



This shared challenge calls for a global response, leveraging innovation and collaboration to ensure that our history, and the lessons it holds, remain intact for future generations to learn from and cherish.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-more-history-of-microplastics-and-archaeological-sites">More history of microplastics and archaeological sites</h2>



As discussed above, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/microplastics-pose-a-greater-threat-to-some-ocean-animals/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">microplastics</a> have emerged as a significant environmental issue, infiltrating ecosystems and archaeological sites worldwide. 



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-discovery-and-early-research">Discovery and early research</h3>



The term "microplastics" was not commonly known until researchers began investigating small plastic particles in the early 21st century. 



However, the presence of microscopic plastic fragments in the environment predates this focus, with scientists and environmentalists noting the accumulation of plastic debris in oceans and on beaches throughout the latter half of the 20th century.



One of the earliest mentions of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/experts-have-a-new-method-to-estimate-the-age-of-microplastics-in-the-ocean/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">microplastics</a> in scientific literature dates back to the 1970s when researchers observed tiny, plastic pellets, often referred to as "nurdles," along coastlines. These pellets serve as raw materials in the manufacturing of plastic products. 



Over the years, the scope of research expanded from these visible particles to include much smaller pieces resulting from the breakdown of larger plastic waste.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-rise-in-awareness-and-concern">Rise in awareness and concern</h3>



Awareness of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/microplastics-found-embedded-in-tissues-of-whales-and-dolphins/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">microplastics</a> significantly increased in the early 2000s as scientists began to uncover their ubiquitous presence in marine environments, freshwater systems, and even terrestrial ecosystems. 



A landmark study in 2004 by Richard Thompson et al. coined the term "microplastics" and highlighted the widespread distribution of these particles across marine habitats. This study spurred a surge in research focusing on the sources, distribution, and effects of microplastics.



The revelation that <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/galapagos-penguins-at-risk-in-polluted-food-web/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">microplastics</a> were not just confined to water bodies but had also been found in the air we breathe and the food we consume underscored the pervasiveness of the issue. 



Investigations revealed that microplastics could originate from a variety of sources, including the breakdown of larger plastic items, synthetic textiles, cosmetics, and industrial processes.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-environmental-and-health-impacts">Environmental and health impacts</h3>



As research into <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ai-shows-how-microplastics-are-harming-global-soil-and-agriculture/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">microplastics</a> expanded, so did our understanding of their environmental and health impacts. Studies have found that microplastics can harm marine life and birds, leading to ingestion, physical harm, and potential chemical exposure due to the pollutants these plastics can carry. 



Concerns also grew regarding the human health implications of microplastic exposure, with research exploring how these particles might affect human tissues and organs.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-global-response-and-mitigation-efforts">Global response and mitigation efforts</h3>



The mounting evidence of the detrimental effects of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/table-salt-contains-a-shocking-number-of-microplastics/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">microplastics</a> has prompted global action to address the issue. Governments, international organizations, and non-governmental organizations have initiated efforts to reduce plastic pollution and specifically target microplastics. 



Measures have included bans on microbeads in personal care products, improvements in waste management systems, and increased funding for research on the environmental impacts of microplastics and potential mitigation strategies.



Additionally, there has been a growing movement towards circular economy models that prioritize sustainability, reduce reliance on single-use plastics, and promote recycling and reuse. 



Public awareness campaigns have also played a crucial role in educating individuals about the importance of reducing plastic consumption and properly disposing of plastic waste.



While efforts to address microplastic pollution are underway, the journey towards significantly reducing their presence in our environment is ongoing, requiring concerted efforts from individuals, communities, and nations alike.



The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0048969724000755?via%3Dihub" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Science of The Total Environment</a>.



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Microplastics have infiltrated archaeological soil samples

Researchers have unveiled the presence of microplastics in archaeological soil...

The health of our oceans is a barometer for the planet's overall environmental condition, with ocean currents playing a critical role in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ripple-effects-of-climate-change-have-created-a-new-ocean/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">regulating Earth's climate</a>. 



A recent study has shed new light on the impact of rising ocean temperatures on one of these vital current systems. 



This significant research provides the first documented evidence of a significant slowdown in the Atlantic Meridional Overturning Circulation (AMOC) -- a key player in the ocean's climate-regulating conveyor belt.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-amoc-the-pulse-of-our-planet-is-slowing-down">AMOC: The pulse of our planet is slowing down</h2>



Alexey Mishonov and his team dive deep into the decades of data compiled in NOAA's <a href="https://www.ncei.noaa.gov/products/world-ocean-atlas" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">World Ocean Atlas</a> to trace the AMOC's performance over time. 



Their findings reveal a startling shift: from 1955 to 1994, the AMOC's flow was stable and consistent. 



However, starting in the mid-1990s, a marked decline in its strength was observed, coinciding with a notable reduction in its speed. 



The researchers attribute this slowdown to the ocean surface's <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/the-arctic-dipole-the-atmospheric-pattern-shaping-our-future-climate/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">continued warming</a> and resultant changes in the upper layers' salinity.



The AMOC is instrumental in transporting warm water towards higher latitudes and returning cooler waters to the tropics -- a cycle that <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/additional-heat-is-being-transferred-to-the-arctic-ocean-as-the-climate-warms/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">redistributes heat</a> across the ocean. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-real-world-consequences-of-climate-science">Real-world consequences of climate science</h2>



Mishonov explains the implications of weakening circulation in Atlantic ocean currents, stating, "If AMOC slows down, the heat exchange will be reduced, which in turn will affect the climate, causing hot areas to get hotter and cold areas to get colder." 



This imbalance could have far-reaching effects on global <a href="https://www.earth.com/video/how-the-ocean-and-climate-influence-each-other/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">climate patterns</a>, potentially leading to more extreme weather conditions, rising sea levels, disruptions to marine ecosystems, and a cascade of other climate feedbacks.



Mishonov's research also touches on the cultural zeitgeist, referencing the dramatic portrayal of a similar scenario in the 2004 disaster movie "The Day After Tomorrow." 



While he clarifies that the film's depiction is highly exaggerated and not supported by the scientific community, the underlying message -- that a significant slowdown in the AMOC could lead to unpredictable and profound <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/clues-from-the-last-ice-age-help-predict-oceans-response-to-continued-warming/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">climate changes</a> -- resonates with many experts.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-science-behind-amoc-dynamics">Science behind AMOC dynamics</h2>



The study utilized an extensive array of data, including climate reanalysis data on decadal wind stress and sea surface height fields from UMD's <a href="http://soda.umd.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Simple Ocean Data Assimilation</a> project, to analyze the North Atlantic's ocean current patterns and AMOC dynamics. 



The findings underscore the complex nature of the ocean's climate trajectory and the diverse climate patterns within different subregions of the North Atlantic. 



Despite systematic warming across the entire North Atlantic, regional decadal variability suggests a range of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/climate-paradox-ocean-current-collapse-could-plunge-europe-into-cold/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">climate responses</a>, underscoring the unpredictable nature of future AMOC behavior.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-slowing-ocean-currents-and-earth-s-future">Slowing ocean currents and Earth's future</h2>



As the scientific community continues to unravel the mysteries of our oceans, the significance of Mishonov and his colleagues' work cannot be overstated. 



Their research contributes to our understanding of the intricate relationship between ocean currents and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/relationship-between-ocean-currents-and-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">global climate</a> and highlights the importance of monitoring these critical systems as we navigate the challenges of a warming world.



The team is already planning further studies to explore similar patterns in long-term temperature and salinity variability across other global ocean regions, emphasizing the ongoing need for robust climate research and observation.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-more-about-ocean-currents">More about ocean currents</h2>



As discussed above, ocean currents play a pivotal role in shaping the climate, marine ecosystems, and human activities around the globe. 



These vast, continuous movements of seawater are driven by various factors, including wind patterns, the Earth's rotation, salinity levels, and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/humans-are-substantially-changing-the-seasons-of-the-ocean/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">temperature differences</a> in the water.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-defining-ocean-currents">Defining ocean currents</h3>



Ocean currents are large-scale movements of seawater that flow in complex patterns across the Earth's oceans. 



They can occur at the surface, influenced by wind, or in the deep ocean, driven by density differences resulting from variations in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/oceans-are-quickly-losing-ability-to-support-fish-due-to-plankton-loss/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">temperature and salinity</a>. 



These currents are essential for distributing heat around the planet, supporting marine life, and influencing weather patterns and climate.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-driving-forces-behind-ocean-currents">Driving forces behind ocean currents</h3>



Several <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ocean-circulation-is-key-to-climate-change-predictions/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">key factors</a> work together to create and shape ocean currents:



Wind Patterns: The primary force that drives surface currents is the wind. The interaction between wind and the ocean's surface causes water to move, creating currents that can travel vast distances. The Coriolis effect, a result of the Earth's rotation, also influences the direction of these currents, causing them to veer to the right in the Northern Hemisphere and to the left in the Southern Hemisphere.



Temperature and Salinity: Differences in water density, affected by temperature and salinity, are the main drivers of deep ocean currents. Colder, saltier water is denser and tends to sink, while warmer, less salty water is less dense and rises. This process creates a global conveyor belt of deep ocean currents that plays a crucial role in regulating the Earth's climate.



The Earth's Rotation: The Coriolis effect, caused by the Earth's rotation, significantly impacts the direction of ocean currents. This force deflects the path of moving water and air across the planet, shaping the flow of currents and influencing their speed and direction.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-types-of-ocean-currents">Types of ocean currents</h3>



Earth has two main types of ocean currents: surface currents and deep ocean currents.



Surface Currents: These currents make up about 10% of all the water in the ocean. These currents are primarily driven by wind and are influenced by the Earth's rotation and the shape of the ocean basins. They play a vital role in weather patterns and marine ecosystems, transporting <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ocean-warming-has-nearly-doubled-in-the-last-decade/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">warm water</a> from the equator towards the poles and cold water from the poles towards the equator.



Deep Ocean Currents: Also known as the thermohaline circulation, deep ocean currents move slowly and are driven by differences in water density. These currents are crucial for moving nutrients and oxygen deep into the ocean and play a key role in regulating the Earth's climate by distributing heat.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-impact-of-ocean-currents">Impact of ocean currents</h3>



Earth's ocean circulation system has a profound impact on the planet, influencing climate, weather patterns, marine ecosystems, and human activities.



Climate Regulation: Ocean currents act as a global conveyor belt, distributing heat from the equator to the poles and vice versa. This process helps to regulate the Earth's climate, making some regions warmer or cooler than they would be otherwise.



Marine Ecosystems: Currents transport nutrients and oxygen, supporting diverse marine ecosystems. They also influence the distribution of marine species by carrying larvae and plankton along their paths.



Human Activities: Ocean currents affect human activities such as shipping, fishing, and recreational boating. Understanding these currents is crucial for navigation, safety, and maximizing fishing yields.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-future-study-and-climate-implications">Future study and climate implications</h3>



In summary, ocean currents are a dynamic and vital component of the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/human-induced-changes-in-ocean-salinity-threaten-biodiversity-and-marine-ecosystems/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Earth's system</a>. They regulate our climate and support marine life while simultaneously impacting human activities in numerous ways. 



By understanding the forces behind these currents and their effects, we can better appreciate the intricate balance of our planet's ecosystems and work towards their preservation.



This research was led by <a href="https://umd.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Maryland</a> researcher Alexey Mishonov, in collaboration with Dan Seidov and James Reagan from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (<a href="https://www.noaa.gov" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NOAA</a>). The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fmars.2024.1345426/full" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Frontiers in Marine Science</a>.



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Ocean currents, the pulse of our planet, are slowing as water temperature rises

The health of our oceans is a barometer for the...

A collaborative effort involving 25 scientists from around the globe has put forth a comprehensive plan aimed at preventing future <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/to-avoid-future-pandemics-we-must-protect-nature/">pandemics</a> through the conservation of natural habitats and the enhancement of biodiversity.&nbsp;



This initiative seeks to ensure animals have access to sufficient food, safe <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/healthy-ecosystems-are-needed-to-prevent-future-pandemics/">environments</a>, and enough space to reduce interactions and the subsequent transmission of pathogens to humans.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-encounters-between-humans-and-disease-carrying-animals">Encounters between humans and disease-carrying animals</h2>



Pandemics often originate from close encounters between humans and disease-carrying animals like bats, which can transmit new pathogens directly or indirectly to people.&nbsp;



The viruses responsible for outbreaks such as <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/two-way-transmission-of-coronavirus-confirmed-between-humans-and-minks/">SARS-CoV-2</a>, SARS-CoV-1, Nipah, Hendra, and possibly Ebola, have all been traced back to bats, highlighting the danger of spillover events.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-shifting-the-focus-to-preventing-future-pandemics">Shifting the focus to preventing future pandemics </h2>



“The world is focused on how can we detect and then contain a novel pathogen once it is circulating in humans, rather than how can we prevent that pathogen from entering the human population in the first place,” said lead author Raina Plowright, a professor of public and ecosystem health at <a href="https://www.cornell.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Cornell University</a>.



Drawing on findings from two studies conducted in 2022, which investigated the transmission of the Hendra virus from bats to horses and humans, the team's prevention strategy emphasizes the importance of maintaining natural habitats for wildlife.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-stressed-bats-linked-to-higher-pathogen-exposure-risk">Stressed bats linked to higher pathogen exposure risk</h2>



The studies revealed that habitat loss and diminished winter food sources lead to bats migrating into agricultural and urban areas, where stressed conditions cause them to excrete more of the virus.&nbsp;



This chain of events facilitates the transfer of viruses from bats to horses, and from horses to humans. Conversely, when <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/bats-carry-viruses-infect-people/">bats</a> have access to sufficient natural food sources, their migration patterns normalize, significantly reducing virus shedding.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-disrupting-the-pathogen-transmission-pathways">Disrupting the pathogen transmission pathways</h2>



The proposed roadmap outlines a series of ecological interventions and policy recommendations aimed at disrupting the pathways through which pathogens are transmitted from animals to humans.&nbsp;



Key measures include ensuring consistent food availability for wildlife throughout the year, especially during critical periods such as reproduction and migration; protecting natural habitats where animals roost or gather in large numbers; and establishing buffer zones between human populations and wildlife to minimize contact.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-minimizing-the-risk-of-pathogen-exposure-nbsp">Minimizing the risk of pathogen exposure&nbsp;</h2>



The experts emphasize the rarity of disease transmission under natural conditions, discussing the multitude of barriers that typically prevent pathogens from reaching humans. However, they stress the importance of protective measures for communities that interact closely with wildlife, to minimize the risk of pathogen exposure.



Highlighting the need for a dedicated international body to oversee pandemic prevention, preparedness, and response, the scientists advocate for the creation of an agency or panel capable of evaluating data on ecological integrity, landscape intactness, and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/scientists-climate-change-and-biodiversity-loss-are-one-indivisible-global-health-crisis/">biodiversity</a> as key factors in preventing future pandemics.&nbsp;



This approach marks a significant shift towards proactive measures designed to safeguard public health by preserving the natural environment.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-predicting-future-pandemics-nbsp">Predicting future pandemics&nbsp;</h2>



Predicting the next pandemic's specifics, such as its pathogen, origin, or timing, is difficult. However, understanding the facts and trends can help in developing strategies to mitigate the impact of future pandemics.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-zoonotic-diseases-are-a-major-threat">Zoonotic diseases are a major threat</h3>



A significant proportion of new infectious diseases that affect humans originate in animals (zoonotic diseases). Changes in human activity, such as deforestation, wildlife trade, and intensified agriculture, increase the risk of zoonotic diseases spilling over to humans.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-globalization-and-mobility-increase-spread">Globalization and mobility increase spread</h3>



The high level of global interconnectedness through travel and trade means that infectious diseases can spread more rapidly and widely than in the past. A disease that emerges in one part of the world can reach distant countries within hours or days.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-antimicrobial-resistance">Antimicrobial resistance</h3>



The rise of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a significant concern. It could lead to a situation where common infections become untreatable, compounding the challenges of controlling a pandemic.



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



Climate change is altering patterns of disease transmission. It can expand the habitats of vectors like mosquitoes, leading to the spread of diseases like malaria and dengue to new areas. It also impacts food security, which can contribute to conditions favorable for the emergence of diseases.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-technology-will-be-key-in-preventing-future-pandemics">Technology will be key in preventing future pandemics </h3>



Advances in technology, such as genomic sequencing and artificial intelligence, will play a critical role in early detection and response to emerging pathogens. Improved surveillance and data sharing across borders can help identify and contain <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/bird-flu-is-killing-thousands-of-seals-and-sea-lions-globally/">outbreaks</a> before they become pandemics.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-preparedness-and-response-plans">Preparedness and response plans</h3>



The COVID-19 pandemic underscored the importance of having robust preparedness and response plans at global, national, and local levels. This includes stockpiling essential medical supplies, having flexible healthcare systems, and establishing protocols for vaccine development and distribution.



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



Sustained investment in public health infrastructure and systems is essential for detecting, preventing, and responding to pandemics. This includes strengthening healthcare systems, developing rapid diagnostic tests, vaccines, and treatments, and training healthcare workers.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-social-and-economic-disparities">Social and economic disparities</h3>



Pandemics disproportionately affect vulnerable populations, exacerbating social and economic inequalities. Addressing these disparities is critical to reducing the overall impact of future pandemics.



The study is published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1038/s41467-024-46151-9" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature Communications</a>.



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We can prevent future pandemics by protecting nature

A collaborative effort involving 25 scientists from around the globe...

Davy,Sound,On,The,Coast,Of,Northeast,Greenland.

The 79° N Glacier in northeast <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/evidence-of-a-greener-greenland-reveals-shocking-reality-of-sea-level-rise/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Greenland</a>, is showcasing alarming signs of climate change with dramatic ice loss. Researchers at the <a href="https://www.awi.de/en/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Alfred Wegener Institute</a> have observed dramatic glacier thinning, with a loss of over 160 meters (525 feet) since 1998.



This rapid decline is attributed to warm ocean currents eroding the glacier from beneath and elevated air temperatures forming surface lakes. These lakes intensify the melt as their waters drain through vast channels in the ice into the ocean. 



Remarkably, one such channel found was 500 meters (1,640 feet) tall, standing under ice that was just 190 meters (624 feet) thick, starkly highlighting climate change's impact on this crucial glacier.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-studying-the-79-n-glacier-in-greenland">Studying the 79° N Glacier in Greenland</h2>



AWI scientists have conducted extensive research in this remote area of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/greenland-transformation-ice-melt-plant-growth-vegetation-cascading-effects/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Greenland</a>, establishing a base camp for operations. They used helicopters to deploy autonomous measuring devices to the glacier's most inaccessible parts.



Subsequently, ground, aircraft radar, and satellite data have informed a study in The Cryosphere journal, exploring the glacier's condition and how global warming impacts ice tongue stability. These findings are crucial for predicting the future of ice shelves in both <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/greenland-absorbs-more-methane-than-it-emits-surprising-scientists/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Greenland</a> and Antarctica.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-understanding-glacial-melt-dynamics">Understanding glacial melt dynamics</h2>



Dr. Ole Zeising, an AWI glaciologist and study's lead author, described their approach.



“Since 2016, we have been using autonomous instruments to carry out radar measurements on the 79° N-Glacier, from which we can determine melt and thinning rates," Zeising explained. 



“In addition, we used aircraft radar data from 1998, 2018 and 2021 showing changes in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/greenland-ice-shelves-have-lost-over-35-percent-of-their-volume/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ice thickness</a>. We were able to measure that the 79° N-Glacier has changed significantly in recent decades under the influence of global warming," he concluded.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-warm-ocean-currents-and-atmospheric-conditions">Warm ocean currents and atmospheric conditions</h2>



The study highlights the drastic effects of warm <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/atlantic-ocean-currents-slowing-as-water-temperature-rises/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ocean currents</a> and atmospheric warming on the glacier's ice tongue. 



It reveals high melt rates and the emergence of large channels beneath the ice, likely resulting from lake water draining through the glacier. Consequently, the glacier has significantly thinned over recent decades.



Interestingly, melt rates have declined since 2018, possibly from cooler ocean currents, highlighting glacier sensitivity to environmental shifts. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-preparing-for-the-collapse">Preparing for the collapse</h2>



Prof. Dr. Angelika Humbert noted the glacier's unusually quick adaptation to these changes. Consequently, she emphasized the complexity of glacier dynamics.



“We expect that this floating glacier tongue will break apart over the next few years to decades. We have begun to study this process in detail to gain maximum insight into the course of the process," explained Humbert. 



"Although there have been several such disintegrations of ice shelves, we have only been able to collect data subsequently. As a scientific community, we are now in a better position by having built up a really good database before the collapse," she concluded.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-the-future-holds-for-greenland-s-79-n-glacier">What the future holds for Greenland's 79° N Glacier</h2>



Looking ahead, scientists predict that <a href="https://www.earth.com/image/mysterious-arc-joins-ice-on-a-fjord-in-western-greenland/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Greenland</a>'s 79° N Glacier's floating tongue may break apart in the coming years or decades. 



This study seeks to understand ice shelf disintegration dynamics, historically challenging to study in real-time. 



Creating a comprehensive database beforehand will better prepare scientists to grasp and potentially mitigate the consequences of these environmental shifts.



The situation of the 79° N Glacier serves as a critical wake-up call regarding the urgent need to address climate change. It highlights the interconnectedness of our planet's systems. 



Additionally, it underscores the profound impacts human activity can have on even the most remote and seemingly stable natural structures.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-more-about-greenland-s-79-n-glacier">More about Greenland’s 79° N Glacier</h2>



As discussed above, the 79° N Glacier, also known as Nioghalvfjerdsfjorden Glacier, stands as a sentinel at the frontier of climate research and glacial study. 



This glacier, remarkable both for its size and its significance to the Arctic environment, continues to draw the attention of scientists and environmentalists around the globe.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-geological-significance">Geological significance</h3>



The 79° N Glacier is a prominent feature of Greenland's northeastern coast. It flows directly into the Arctic Ocean, making it one of the largest glaciers contributing to the North Atlantic's icebergs. 



Along with its neighbor, the Zachariae Isstrom, it forms a critical part of the Greenland ice sheet's dynamics, playing a significant role in global sea-level rise projections.



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



As an active indicator of climate change, the 79° N Glacier has been under intense scrutiny. Scientists monitor its ice flow rates, melt patterns, and calving events to understand better the impacts of global warming on polar ice masses. 



Recent studies, like the one discussed previously by AWI, have shown accelerated ice loss from this glacier, signaling significant environmental transformations in the Arctic.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-research-and-exploration">Research and exploration</h3>



The glacier is a hub for cutting-edge research and exploration. Teams from various international institutions embark on expeditions to drill ice cores, deploy satellite technology, and use underwater robotics to study the glacier's behavior and its contribution to global sea level rise. These efforts are crucial for predicting future changes and developing strategies to mitigate climate impacts.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-conservation-of-greenland-s-79-n-glacier">Conservation of Greenland's 79° N Glacier</h3>



The 79° N Glacier in Greenland is a critical piece of the puzzle in understanding global climate dynamics. Through the continued efforts of the scientific community, the glacier serves as both a barometer for the changing climate and a beacon for action against the global challenge of climate change. 



As we move forward, the story of the 79° N Glacier will undoubtedly play a pivotal role in shaping our approach to environmental preservation and our understanding of the Earth's delicate balance.



The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://tc.copernicus.org/articles/18/1333/2024/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">The Cryosphere</a>.



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Another massive Greenland glacier is rapidly melting

The 79° N Glacier in northeast Greenland, is showcasing alarming...

Io,Moth,Male

The alarming rate at which insects are disappearing from our environment, especially urban areas, has become a critical concern. This catastrophic phenomenon is unfolding so swiftly it outpaces scientific study.



This urgency is underscored by the complexity of <a href="https://www.earth.com/earthpedia-articles/are-insects-animals/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">insect life cycles</a>, including stages such as eggs, larvae, pupae, and adults, raising questions about whether all stages are declining at the same pace. Until recently, a comprehensive investigation into this matter was scarce.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-studying-insect-population-decline-in-urban-areas">Studying insect population decline in urban areas</h2>



An alarming study has shed new light on this issue, focusing on the monitoring of both adult and larval stages of moths in an urban, subtropical setting over a year. 



This research marks a significant step forward, being the first to analyze multiple life stages of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/global-insect-decline-what-are-the-causes-and-consequences/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">insects</a> to understand the depth of their declines comprehensively. 



Additionally, it's among the few studies that probe insect population dynamics in lower latitudes, areas which are increasingly bearing the brunt of urban expansion and extreme temperatures.



Michael Belitz, the lead author of the study and a researcher at the <a href="https://www.floridamuseum.ufl.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Florida Museum of Natural History</a> during the investigation, highlighted the criticality of subtropical and tropical environments. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-urban-heat-islands-and-insect-decline">Urban heat islands and insect decline</h2>



These regions not only harbor the highest insect abundance and diversity but are also experiencing the fastest rates of urbanization globally. 



Belitz pointed out, "The urban heat island effect in these areas may be especially detrimental to insects," emphasizing the adverse impact of urbanization on <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/insects-thrive-in-restored-habitats-near-solar-energy-facilities/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">insect populations</a>.



Cities, regardless of their geographical location, exacerbate the heat problem. In contrast to natural or rural settings, where a significant portion of sunlight is reflected back into space, urban materials like asphalt and concrete absorb and convert more light into heat. 



This phenomenon creates "heat islands" within cities, areas with temperatures up to 7 degrees Fahrenheit warmer than their surroundings, posing a substantial threat to local wildlife, especially in warmer regions.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-illuminating-the-plight-of-moths">Illuminating the plight of moths</h2>



Robert Guralnick, co-author and curator of biodiversity informatics at the Florida Museum of Natural History, remarked on the broader implications of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/natures-silent-language-decoding-the-chemical-signals-of-insects/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">insect</a> declines. "There's no doubt that insect declines are a real phenomenon." 



He further noted the challenge in pinpointing where these declines are most acute, whether in tropical or temperate regions, emphasizing the need for detailed research across various environments.



The team's innovative approach involved collecting moths from several locations across Alachua County, Florida, with different levels of urban development. 



Capturing adult moths proved straightforward, using light sources as lures. However, locating caterpillars was more challenging due to their habitat in the tree canopy and their indifference to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/why-insects-seem-to-be-attracted-to-light-has-long-been-a-mystery/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">artificial light</a>. 



Despite these obstacles, the importance of including caterpillars in the study was clear, as Belitz noted, "Caterpillars are an important food source for breeding birds."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-size-matters-the-fate-of-macro-and-micro-moths">Size matters: The fate of macro and micro moths</h2>



To estimate caterpillar abundance, the team utilized an inventive method involving the collection of larval excrement. 



By placing funnels with attached jars beneath trees and weighing the collected pellets weekly, they could infer caterpillar population sizes.



After a year of diligent work, over 35,000 moths were collected and categorized as either macro- or micro-moths. 



<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/luna-moth-tails-have-only-one-purpose-evading-bats/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Macro moths</a>, such as luna and io moths, are known for their large wings and ability to travel long distances. 



Micro moths, defined in this study as those 10 millimeters or less in length, encompass a vast array of species with cloak-like wings, displaying a bewildering diversity of beiges and browns.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-both-large-and-small-moths-share-a-similar-fate">Both large and small moths share a similar fate</h2>



Both large and small <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-ermine-moths-effortlessly-produce-ultrasonic-warning-sounds/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">moths</a> face declines, but not in the ways previously thought. Larger moths, once believed to be better at navigating urban challenges due to their ability to travel greater distances, are actually at a disadvantage. 



The research found that larger moths fared worse in urban areas compared to their smaller counterparts, contradicting earlier findings from a study in Belgium. 



According to lead researcher Michael Belitz, the discrepancy likely stems from the difference in climate between temperate Europe and subtropical Florida, with larger moths in warmer climates expending more energy to cool down. 



This observation extends to other <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/understanding-how-insects-distinguish-between-sugars/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">insects</a>, suggesting a broader pattern where urbanization favors smaller body sizes due to reduced metabolic stress.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-diet-may-be-the-key-to-urban-insect-survival">Diet may be the key to urban insect survival</h2>



The diet of moths also plays a crucial role in their urban survival. Moths that feed on a variety of plants are more adaptable to city life than those with specialized diets, which quickly decline with <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/city-moths-develop-smaller-wings-survive-light-pollution/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">urban development</a>. This adaptability underscores the importance of dietary diversity for survival in changing environments.



Despite focusing on protected areas, the study observed significant declines in moth populations, indicating that even these spaces are not immune to the impacts of urbanization. 



Robert Guralnick, a co-researcher, pointed out the misconception that city parks, which appear natural, actually host significantly altered communities compared to undisturbed wildlife areas. 



“You might think that you’re looking at a natural environment when you walk into a city park, because it looks intact,” Guralnick said. “The truth is, what you see is a completely different community than those that exist in places like wildlife management areas.”



The findings are particularly alarming considering they come from Alachua County, a region in Florida less urbanized than many others, hinting at the widespread nature of biodiversity loss.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-implications-and-conservation-efforts">Implications and conservation efforts</h2>



The situation, however, is not beyond hope. Belitz emphasizes the potential for urban and suburban areas to support <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/butterfly-genome-has-barely-changed-after-250-million-years-of-evolution/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">moth populations</a> through conscious efforts to enhance their habitats. 



Planting native vegetation can attract and sustain a variety of pollinators, including moths, thereby increasing biodiversity. 



Additionally, reducing light pollution, which disorients and endangers moths and other nocturnal insects, presents a simple yet effective way to support these vital members of the ecosystem.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-insects-moths-and-humans-coexisting-in-urban-areas">Insects, moths and humans coexisting in urban areas</h2>



In summary, this study unveils the stark reality of declining insect populations, especially moths, in urban environments, revealing how the relentless march of urbanization and the ensuing heat islands pose significant threats to insect biodiversity. 



By meticulously examining both the adult and larval stages of moths, the research offers unprecedented insights into the challenges these creatures face, from the subtropical climates of Florida to the urban heat traps of cities worldwide. 



Yet, amidst the alarming findings lies a beacon of hope: the potential for positive human intervention. Through simple actions such as cultivating native plants and minimizing light pollution, we can forge a path towards mitigating the impact of urbanization on moths and other vital insect species, ensuring their survival and the preservation of our planet's intricate web of life.



The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/gcb.17241" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Global Change Biology</a>.



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Insects are disappearing from urban areas at a disturbingly rapid rate

The alarming rate at which insects are disappearing from our...

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Today’s Video of the Day from <a href="https://www.igb.illinois.edu/">Carl R. Woese Institute for Genomic Biology</a> reveals how scientists can modify common crops like soybean, rice, and wheat to protect them from heat stress.



“We need to double crop production by 2050 to feed a growing global population, and not only are we not on track to do that, but climate change is further complicating things,” said Amanda Cavanagh, a lecturer at the University of Essex. 



The study is part of Realizing Increased Photosynthetic Efficiency (RIPE), an international research project that aims to develop food crops that turn the sun’s energy into food more efficiently.



“Using an engineering approach we designed multiple alternative metabolic pathways to photorespiration. Testing them in the field showed increases in productivity which led Amanda to significantly move the project forward by showing our engineered plants can withstand pretty extreme temperature stress,” said study co-author and RIPE researcher Paul South.&nbsp;



“As the climate changes and temperature stresses increase the pressure on our global food supply, farmers will need every tool available including engineering approaches like the synthetic biology used here to maintain safe and productive harvests.”



The experts tested plants modified to have more efficient photorespiration to see if they were better adapted to warmer temperatures.&nbsp;



The team found that the engineered plants produced 26 percent more biomass than the wild-type plants exposed to the same temperatures, and had 15 percent less yield loss under the higher temperatures.



Video Credit: Amanda Nguyen/University of Illinois



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



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Designing crops that can beat the heat

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

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



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



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



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



Video Credit: NASA Goddard&nbsp;



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



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Remote sensing will revolutionize the way we monitor trees

[sendtonews key="EjmSP20gQK-2593093-12187" type="single"] Today's Video of the Day from NASA...

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



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



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



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



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



Video Credit: ESA&nbsp;&nbsp;



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



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Lesotho: Africa's "Kingdom in the Sky"

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



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



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



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



Video Credit: NASA Goddard



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



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Wetlands are a major source of methane emissions

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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The rapid retreat of the Columbia Glacier

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

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



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



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



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



Video/ Image Credit: NASA Goddard



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



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2022 illustrated the consequences of a warming climate

[sendtonews key="3UUsNkFOuS-2487333-12187" type="single"] Today's Video of the Day from NASA...

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



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



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



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



Video Credit: NASA Goddard&nbsp;



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



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Satellites reveal how Earth's systems are interconnected

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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Tiger sharks are shifting poleward as temperatures rise

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



Video Credit: ESA&nbsp;



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



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Melt ponds on the Greenland Ice Sheet

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



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



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



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



Video Credit: ESA



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



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Tracking changes in Earth's water cycle

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

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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

[sendtonews key="Ccjk8KEMzv-2550719-12187" type="single"] Today's Video of the Day from NASA...

Closeup,Of,Fresh,Green,The,Napier,Bush,Grass,As,Animal

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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



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.

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



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.

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



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.

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



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.

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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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.

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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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.

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



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.

Ocean heat influences regional climate

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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

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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...