<p>Today's Image of the Day from <a href="https://earthobservatory.nasa.gov/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NASA Earth Observatory</a> features Clear Lake Northern California, which is one of the oldest <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/alarming-study-most-of-the-worlds-largest-lakes-are-quickly-losing-water/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">freshwater lakes</a> in the United States. </p>



<p>In mid-May 2024, the waters of Clear Lake were transformed into a vivid tapestry of bright green swirls, as seen in this image captured on May 15, 2024 by the Operational Land Imager-2 (OLI-2) on the Landsat 9 satellite.&nbsp;</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-clear-lake-algal-bloom-is-visible-from-space">Clear Lake algal bloom is visible from space </h2>



<p>The algal bloom, potentially comprised of blue-green algae (cyanobacteria) and other phytoplankton, was documented from space. Direct sampling is needed to precisely identify the algal organisms present in the lake.</p>



<p>Cyanobacteria, single-celled photosynthetic organisms, are notorious for some species' ability to produce microcystin, a toxin harmful to the skin, liver, and kidneys.&nbsp;</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-large-algal-blooms-in-clear-lake-nbsp">Large algal blooms in Clear Lake&nbsp;</h2>



<p>Clear Lake, about 60 miles north of San Francisco Bay, is a naturally nutrient-rich body of water that has historically supported large algal populations dating back to the end of the last ice age, around 10,000 years ago, based on sediment core studies.</p>



<p>Recent human activities have exacerbated nutrient levels in the lake, leading to a rise in harmful algal blooms.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Out of over 130 algal species that have been identified in the lake, three types of blue-green algae pose health risks under certain conditions. These blooms typically appear in the spring and late summer, as reported by Lake County officials.</p>



<p>Nutrient influx from agriculture, vineyards, inadequate septic systems, gravel mining, and an abandoned mercury mine, along with natural factors such as lakebed sediment disturbances caused by waves and fish, have contributed to the lake's <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/rivers-at-risk-climate-change-is-diminishing-global-water-quality/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">water quality</a> decline. </p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-chlorophyll-a-and-cyanobacteria-nbsp">Chlorophyll-a and cyanobacteria&nbsp;</h2>



<p>This year, data from a satellite-based ocean color instrument on Sentinel-3, processed further by the NOAA National Ocean Service, showed increased concentrations of chlorophyll-a and cyanobacteria leading up to May 15.</p>



<p>As of May 25, local monitors have not reported microcystin levels for the current bloom. Nonetheless, the high algal density poses risks to aquatic ecosystems, as decomposing phytoplankton deplete oxygen, potentially leading to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/hypoxia-is-a-serious-problem-in-rivers-worldwide/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">hypoxic conditions</a> and aquatic dead zones.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-more-about-clear-lake-nbsp">More about Clear Lake&nbsp;</h2>



<p>Clear Lake is the largest natural freshwater lake wholly within the state of California. Geological estimates suggest that it formed about 2.5 million years ago.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The lake is a popular destination for fishing, particularly for largemouth bass, and its scenic beauty attracts many visitors for boating, bird watching, and other recreational activities.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Clear Lake's ecosystem supports a diverse range of wildlife, but it also faces environmental challenges such as water quality issues, partly due to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/water-quality-threatened-by-nutrient-pollution-in-40-u-s-states/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">agricultural runoff</a> and other human activities.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-freshwater-lakes-and-climate-change-nbsp">Freshwater lakes and climate change&nbsp;</h2>



<p>Freshwater lakes are significantly impacted by climate change, which manifests in various ways, affecting both their ecological balance and their roles in local environments.&nbsp;</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-warming-lake-water">Warming lake water</h3>



<p>As global temperatures rise, lakes experience changes in water temperature and ice cover. Warmer water tends to hold less oxygen, which can harm fish and other aquatic life; it can also encourage the growth of harmful algal blooms that further deplete oxygen and release toxins into the water.&nbsp;</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ice-cover">Ice cover</h3>



<p>Reduced ice cover during winter changes the seasonal rhythms of lakes, affecting species that rely on ice cover for part of their life cycle, like some cold-water fish and plants.</p>



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



<p>Additionally, changes in precipitation patterns and increased evaporation due to higher temperatures can alter water levels. These fluctuations not only impact the aquatic habitats but also affect water availability for human use, agriculture, and hydroelectric power generation.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The increasing frequency of extreme weather events, like storms and droughts, leads to more pronounced cycles of flooding and low water levels, creating challenges for managing water resources and preserving lake ecosystems.&nbsp;</p>



<p>As <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-some-lakes-resist-the-heat-of-atmospheric-warming/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">lakes</a> are integral to their local climates, biodiversity, and economies, these changes can have widespread implications for the communities and ecosystems that depend on them.</p>



<p>Image Credit: NASA Earth Observatory&nbsp;</p>



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Clear Lake turns green with algal growth

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

<p>Today's <strong>Image of the Day</strong> from <a href="https://earthobservatory.nasa.gov/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NASA Earth Observatory</a> features record-breaking water levels in the Big Sioux River which overtopped its banks on June 24, 2024. The false-color image highlights the presence of water, appearing dark blue. </p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-torrential-rainfall-across-the-midwest-nbsp">Torrential rainfall across the Midwest&nbsp;</h2>



<p>In late June, more than a foot of rain fell on parts of South Dakota and Iowa in the Midwest, causing rivers to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/can-rivers-always-recover-from-floods/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">overflow</a> and resulting in significant destruction. The overflowing rivers demolished homes and bridges and inundated farmlands.</p>



<p>The areas of the Midwest that were hit hardest by excessive rain were south of Sioux Falls, South Dakota. </p>



<p>“A front of dense moisture, drawn north from the Gulf of Mexico, parked over southeastern South Dakota and northwestern Iowa on June 20 and 21, unleashing torrential rainfall. Mitchell and Sioux Falls, South Dakota, recorded 6.5 and 7.7 inches of cumulative rain, respectively,” said NASA.</p>



<p>“It was the wettest two-day period for these cities in the National Weather Service’s (NWS) climate record, dating back to 1893. In Canton, South Dakota, near Iowa’s border, about 15 inches of rain fell on those days, according to NWS estimates.”</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-saturated-soils-in-the-great-plains-nbsp">Saturated soils in the Great Plains&nbsp;</h2>



<p>The National Water Center noted that the front brought rain to already saturated soils, as the Great Plains region had received 150-200 percent of its normal <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/extreme-rainfall-gets-an-unpredictable-boost-from-air-pollution/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">rainfall</a> from mid-May to mid-June. </p>



<p>Using soil moisture data from NASA’s Short-term Prediction Research and Transition (SPoRT) center, the NWS forecasted that the ground could not absorb more water.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-big-sioux-river-nbsp">Big Sioux River&nbsp;</h2>



<p>The Big Sioux River, which borders Iowa and South Dakota, reached record heights following the consecutive days of heavy rainfall.&nbsp;</p>



<p>On June 23, the river level in Sioux City, Iowa, rose to nearly 45 feet, 7 feet higher than the previous record. That evening, a steel railroad bridge connecting North Sioux City, South Dakota, with Sioux City, Iowa, collapsed into the Big Sioux River.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-rock-valley-flooding">Rock Valley flooding</h2>



<p>In northwestern Iowa, about a foot of rain fell over two days near Rock Valley, 50 miles southeast of Sioux Falls.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/heavy-rainfall-events-in-the-northeast-are-set-to-increase-by-over-50-percent/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">excessive rain</a> brought the Rock River to an all-time high of 27 feet (major flooding stage is 19 feet). On the morning of June 22, the river broke a levee in Rock Valley, flooding the town and forcing 4,000 residents to evacuate. </p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-blue-earth-river">Blue Earth River </h2>



<p>Subsequently, the front moved over southern Minnesota, causing water levels to rise along several rivers in the state. Rising waters on the Blue Earth River washed out a portion of the Rapidan Dam near Mankato, according to news reports.</p>



<p>As of June 25, water levels of many rivers in the Great Plains had begun to fall but remained at major flooding stage, according to the NWS.</p>



<p>Image Credit: NASA Earth Observatory&nbsp;</p>



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Torrential rain caused catastrophic flooding in the Midwest

<p>Today's <strong>Image of the Day</strong> from the <a href="https://www.esa.int/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">European Space Agency</a> features the Sombrero Galaxy, with its magnificent structure captured in stunning detail by the Hubble Space Telescope.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-sombrero-galaxy-nbsp">Sombrero Galaxy&nbsp;</h2>



<p>The Sombrero Galaxy, also known as Messier 104, is one of the most intriguing and easily recognizable <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/james-webb-captures-galaxies-that-are-too-old-to-exist/">galaxies</a> in the night sky, notable for its bright nucleus, large central bulge, and prominent dust lane that gives it a sombrero-like appearance when viewed from Earth. It is located in the constellation Virgo, about 29 million light-years away.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-appearance">Appearance</h3>



<p>Its most distinguishing feature is the dark dust lane that encircles the galaxy along its equator, resembling the rim of a sombrero hat. This dust lane is composed of interstellar dust and gas, where new stars are being born.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-galaxy-type-and-structure">Galaxy type and structure</h3>



<p>The Sombrero Galaxy is classified as an SA(s)a galaxy, indicating it is an unbarred spiral galaxy with a prominent nucleus. However, its large bulge and dust lane also give it characteristics of an elliptical galaxy and a lenticular galaxy, making it a hybrid of sorts.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-bright-nucleus">Bright nucleus</h3>



<p>The galaxy has a very bright nucleus, which is thought to house a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/largest-map-of-supermassive-black-holes-unveiled/">supermassive black hole</a>. Observations suggest the black hole at its center is one of the most massive known, with an estimated mass of hundreds of millions of solar masses.</p>



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



<p>The Sombrero Galaxy spans about 50,000 light-years in diameter, making it about half the size of our Milky Way. Its halo is also populated with globular clusters, similar to the Milky Way, though the exact number is still a subject of research.</p>



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



<p>Due to its unique features and relatively close proximity, the Sombrero Galaxy has been a focus of research and has been extensively studied across various wavelengths, from radio to X-ray. These studies have helped astronomers gain insights into the processes of galaxy <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/galaxies-like-our-own-milky-way-are-not-unique/">formation</a> and evolution.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-expanding-universe-model-nbsp">The expanding universe model&nbsp;</h2>



<p>The expanding universe model is a fundamental concept in cosmology that describes the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/new-study-claims-our-universe-is-27-billion-years-old-double-the-current-age-estimate/">universe</a> as continuously growing in scale over time. This model is based on observations that galaxies are moving away from each other, with their separation increasing as time progresses.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The Sombrero Galaxy was one of the first galaxies to be identified as having a redshift, indicating it is moving away from us, which was an important piece of evidence supporting the expanding universe model. The key aspects of this model include:</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-hubble-s-law">Hubble's Law</h3>



<p>In 1929, Edwin Hubble discovered that galaxies are receding from each other at velocities proportional to their distances. This relationship, known as Hubble's Law, provided the first observational evidence for the expanding universe. It suggests that the farther away a galaxy is, the faster it appears to be moving away from us.&nbsp;</p>



<p>This expansion is often described by the analogy of dots on an inflating balloon; as the balloon expands, the dots (representing galaxies) move away from each other.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-big-bang-theory">Big Bang Theory</h3>



<p>The expanding universe model is a cornerstone of the Big Bang theory, which posits that the universe began as a singular, extremely hot and dense point approximately 13.8 billion years ago. The universe has been expanding and cooling ever since. This theory explains the creation of all space, time, matter, and energy.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-cosmic-microwave-background-radiation">Cosmic Microwave Background Radiation</h3>



<p>The discovery of the CMB in 1965 provided strong evidence for the Big Bang theory and the expanding universe model. The CMB is the afterglow radiation from the Big Bang, observed as a faint microwave signal pervasive throughout the universe. It is considered a snapshot of the infant universe, showing a time about 380,000 years after the Big Bang when the universe had cooled enough for atoms to form and light to travel freely.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-accelerated-expansion">Accelerated Expansion</h3>



<p>Observations of distant supernovae in the late 20th century revealed that the universe's expansion is accelerating, not slowing down as previously assumed. This acceleration is attributed to a mysterious force termed "<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/dark-matter-does-not-exist-universe-27-billion-years-old-study/">dark energy</a>," which constitutes about 68% of the total energy content of the universe.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-cosmological-principle">Cosmological Principle</h3>



<p>The model is based on the cosmological principle, which states that on large scales, the universe is homogeneous (uniform in composition) and isotropic (appearing the same in all directions). This principle supports the observation that the expansion of the universe is uniform and not directed outward from a central point.</p>



<p>The expanding universe model has profoundly impacted our understanding of cosmology, leading to further inquiries into the nature of dark matter, dark energy, and the ultimate fate of the universe.</p>



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



<p>"NASA/ESA Hubble Space Telescope has trained its razor-sharp eye on one of the universe's most stately and photogenic galaxies, the Sombrero galaxy, Messier 104 (M104). The galaxy's hallmark is a brilliant white, bulbous core encircled by the thick dust lanes comprising the spiral structure of the galaxy," said ESA.</p>



<p>"As seen from Earth, the galaxy is tilted nearly edge-on. We view it from just six degrees north of its equatorial plane. This brilliant galaxy was named the Sombrero because of its resemblance to the broad rim and high-topped Mexican hat."</p>



<p>"At a relatively bright magnitude of +8, M104 is just beyond the limit of naked-eye visibility and is easily seen through small telescopes. The Sombrero lies at the southern edge of the rich Virgo cluster of galaxies and is one of the most massive objects in that group, equivalent to 800 billion suns. The galaxy is 50,000 light-years across and is located 30 million light-years from Earth."</p>



<p>Image Credit: NASA/ESA and The Hubble Heritage Team (STScI/AURA)</p>



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The brilliant Sombrero Galaxy hints at an expanding universe 

Today's Image of the Day from the European Space Agency...

<p>Today's <strong>Image of the Day</strong> from the <a href="https://www.esa.int/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">European Space Agency</a> features the Columbia Glacier, a tidewater glacier located in Prince William Sound on the south coast of Alaska. </p>



<p>It is one of the most rapidly changing <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/melting-glaciers-pose-great-threat-to-biodiversity-in-mountain-ranges/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">glaciers</a> in the world and has been closely studied for the insights it provides into glacial mechanics and climate change impacts. </p>



<p>"Since the early 1980s, the Columbia Glacier has retreated more than 20 km and lost about half of its total volume. This one glacier accounts for nearly half of the ice lost in the Chugach Mountains," noted ESA.</p>



<p>"The changing climate is thought to have caused its retreat. Until 1980, when its rapid and constant retreat began, the glacier’s terminus was observed at the northern edge of Heather Island, which lies near the end of Columbia Bay, the inlet into which the glacier currently flows before draining into Prince William Sound."</p>



<p>"This satellite image, acquired in September 2023, shows instead the deep mostly ice-free Columbia Bay dotted with numerous icebergs and fragmented sea-ice."</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-dramatic-calving-events">Dramatic calving events</h2>



<p>The Columbia Glacier is known for its dramatic calving events, where large chunks of ice break off from the glacier's terminus and fall into the sea, becoming icebergs. This process has been particularly active as the glacier has retreated, contributing to hazards for shipping in Prince William Sound.</p>



<p>The glacier has been the focus of extensive scientific research, serving as a case study for understanding the dynamics of tidewater glaciers and their responses to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/preparing-for-ocean-acidification-a-silent-killer-of-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">climate change</a>. Studies have used satellite imagery, field observations, and modeling to track its changes over time.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-climate-impact-on-the-columbia-glacier">Climate impact on the Columbia Glacier</h2>



<p>"Columbia is just one of the many glaciers suffering from the effects of climate change. Most of the glaciers around the world are losing mass. However, before the advent of satellites, measuring their retreat and studying their vulnerability to climate change was difficult considering their size, remoteness and rugged terrain they occupy," said ESA.</p>



<p>"Different satellite instruments now can gather information systematically and over large areas, providing an effective means to monitor change, keep track of all calving stages and quantify the melting rate and their contribution to sea-level rise."</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-more-about-columbia-glacier-nbsp">More about Columbia Glacier&nbsp;</h2>



<p>Columbia Glacier flows from the Chugach Mountains into Columbia Bay. It was once one of the largest contributors to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/sea-level-rise-will-cost-coastal-cities-over-1-trillion-in-damages/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">sea level rise</a> due to its significant ice loss.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The glacier's dynamics are influenced by its interaction with water, where the terminus meets the ocean. As the glacier flows into the sea, large chunks of ice calve off the front, leading to dramatic scenes of ice crashing into the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/shelf-sediment-ocean-composition/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ocean</a>. This process has been intensifying due to warmer temperatures and changes in water circulation, which undermine the ice from below.</p>



<p>Columbia Glacier's retreat has significant implications for marine navigation and local ecosystems. The increase in icebergs calving into the bay poses hazards to ships, while the fresh meltwater impacts local water temperatures and salinity, affecting the habitat of fish and other marine life.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-melting-glaciers-and-ocean-composition-nbsp">Melting glaciers and ocean composition&nbsp;</h2>



<p>Glaciers, which are large masses of accumulated snow and ice, store about 69 percent of the world's freshwater. As the climate warms, these glaciers increasingly melt and release freshwater into nearby seas and the ocean at large.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-influx-of-freshwater">Influx of freshwater</h3>



<p>The influx of freshwater from <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/melting-glaciers-pose-great-threat-to-biodiversity-in-mountain-ranges/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">melting glaciers</a> alters the salinity (salt concentration) of the ocean water. Since freshwater is less dense than saltwater, its addition can lead to stratification in which lighter, less salty water layers on top of denser, saltier water.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Stratification can disrupt ocean currents, which are driven in part by differences in water density and temperature. These currents are crucial for regulating global climate by distributing heat and nutrients around the planet.</p>



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



<p>Furthermore, changes in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/human-induced-changes-in-ocean-salinity-threaten-biodiversity-and-marine-ecosystems/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">salinity</a> can affect marine life, which often has narrow salinity tolerance ranges. For example, shifts in salinity can impact breeding cycles, migration patterns, and the availability of nutrients.&nbsp;</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-global-carbon-cycle">Global carbon cycle</h3>



<p>As the ocean's composition changes, its capacity to absorb carbon dioxide from the atmosphere could also be altered, affecting the global carbon cycle and, by extension, climate change feedback mechanisms.</p>



<p>The melting of glaciers contributes to more pronounced changes in ocean conditions, impacting everything from global climate systems to local ecosystems in marine environments.</p>



<p>Image Credit: ESA&nbsp;</p>



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Columbia Glacier on the south coast of Alaska

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



<p>The health impacts of haze can be mitigated by staying indoors on days when <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/twenty-years-of-air-quality-improvement-erased-by-wildfires/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">air quality</a> is particularly poor, using air purifiers, wearing masks designed to filter out fine particles, and following local health advisories.</p>



<p>Image Credit: NASA Earth Observatory</p>



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

Haze pollution is an environmental crisis in Thailand

<p>In a groundbreaking discovery, researchers have mapped the astonishing 4,200-kilometer transatlantic flight of the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/massive-butterfly-migration-sparked-by-a-surge-in-vegetation/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Painted Lady butterfly</a>.</p>



<p>This unprecedented journey challenges our understanding of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/millions-of-insects-migrate-through-the-pyrenees-each-year/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">insect migration</a> and showcases the remarkable capabilities of these delicate creatures.</p>



<p>The study, led by Gerard Talavera from the <a href="https://www.ibb.csic.es/ca/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Institut Botànic de Barcelona</a>, along with an international team of researchers, unravels the mystery of Painted Lady butterflies found on the Atlantic beaches of French Guiana in October 2013.</p>



<p>This unusual sighting sparked a scientific investigation that would reveal an extraordinary tale of endurance and adaptation.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-journey-of-painted-lady-butterflies">The journey of Painted Lady butterflies</h2>



<p>The research team employed a unique combination of cutting-edge techniques to trace the origin and journey of the Painted Lady butterflies. The methods included wind trajectory reconstruction, genome sequencing, pollen DNA analysis, and isotope geolocation.</p>



<p>This innovative approach allowed the researchers to piece together the puzzle of the butterflies' remarkable journey.</p>



<p>Dr. Clément Bataille, a professor at the University of Ottawa, emphasized the significance of this approach: "It is the first time that this combination of molecular techniques including isotope geolocation and pollen metabarcoding is tested on <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/bats-feast-on-migrating-insects-in-the-pyrenees/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">migratory insects</a>."</p>



<p>"The results are very promising and transferable to many other migratory insect species. The technique should fundamentally transform our understanding of insect migration."</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-astonishing-feat-of-nature">Astonishing feat of nature </h2>



<p>The study's findings unveil an astonishing feat of nature. Wind trajectory analysis identified conditions conducive to a transatlantic crossing from western Africa. Genetic studies revealed a closer relationship to African and European populations, eliminating the possibility of North American origin. </p>



<p>Intriguingly, pollen DNA analysis detected traces of plants native to tropical Africa, providing a crucial link to the butterflies' journey. Meanwhile, isotope analysis pointed to a potential birthplace in western Europe. </p>



<p>These diverse and complementary lines of evidence converged to support an extraordinary conclusion: the Painted Lady butterflies had indeed accomplished a long-distance, intercontinental flight across the Atlantic Ocean.</p>



<p>"We usually see butterflies as symbols of the fragility of beauty, but science shows us that they can perform incredible feats. There is still much to discover about their capabilities," said study co-author Roger Vila, a researcher at the <a href="https://www.ibe.upf-csic.es/presentation">Institute of Evolutionary Biology</a>.</p>



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



<p>The researchers assessed the viability of this transatlantic flight by analyzing energy expenditure. They concluded that the journey, lasting 5 to 8 days without stops, was possible due to favorable wind conditions.</p>



<p>"The butterflies could only have completed this flight using a strategy alternating between active flight, which is costly energetically, and gliding the wind," explained study co-author Eric Toro-Delgado.</p>



<p>"We estimate that without wind, the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/butterflies-use-visual-and-behavioral-mimicry-to-avoid-predators/">butterflies</a> could have flown a maximum of 780 km before consuming all their fat and, therefore, their energy."</p>



<p>The study highlights the importance of the Saharan air layer as a significant aerial route for dispersion. These wind currents, known for transporting Saharan dust to the Amazon, are now recognized as potential highways for living organisms.</p>



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



<p>This discovery suggests the existence of natural aerial corridors connecting continents, potentially facilitating species dispersal on an unprecedented scale.</p>



<p>"I think this study does a good job of demonstrating how much we tend to underestimate the dispersal abilities of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-do-flightless-stick-insects-spread-their-populations-over-vast-regions/">insects</a>," noted study co-author Megan Reich, a postdoctoral fellow at the <a href="https://www.uottawa.ca/en">University of Ottawa</a>.</p>



<p>"Furthermore, it's entirely possible that we are also underestimating the frequency of these types of dispersal events and their impact on ecosystems."</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-painted-lady-s-flight-into-the-future">The Painted Lady's flight into the future</h2>



<p>As our climate continues to change, researchers anticipate more long-distance dispersal events, which could significantly impact global biodiversity and ecosystems.</p>



<p>"It is essential to promote systematic monitoring routines for dispersing insects, which could help predict and mitigate potential risks to biodiversity resulting from global change," said Gerard Talavera, the study's lead researcher.</p>



<p>This groundbreaking research not only reveals the extraordinary capabilities of the Painted Lady butterfly but also opens new avenues for understanding insect migration in the face of global environmental changes. </p>



<p>As we continue to unlock the secrets of these remarkable creatures, we may find that they have much to teach us about resilience, adaptation, and the interconnectedness of our world.</p>



<p>The study is published in the journal <em><a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41467-024-49079-2" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature Communications</a></em>.</p>



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The incredible transatlantic journey of the Painted Lady

In a groundbreaking discovery, researchers have mapped the astonishing 4,200-kilometer...

<p>A doubling of atmospheric CO2 could significantly increase Earth's average temperature by 7 to 14 degrees Celsius, according to a study led by researchers at the <a href="https://www.nioz.nl/en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Royal Netherlands Institute for Sea Research</a> (NIOZ) and the Universities of <a href="https://www.uu.nl/en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Utrecht</a> and <a href="https://www.bristol.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Bristol</a>.&nbsp;</p>



<p>These findings contrast sharply with the 2.3 to 4.5 degrees predicted by the <a href="https://www.ipcc.ch/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change</a> (IPCC).</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-invaluable-resource-for-the-study">Invaluable resource for the study</h2>



<p>The researchers used a 45-year-old drill core from the Pacific Ocean floor to gather their data. The core preserved organic matter due to the lack of oxygen, making it an invaluable source for studying historical climate conditions.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“I realized that this core is very attractive for researchers, because the ocean floor at that spot has had oxygen-free conditions for many millions of years,” said senior author Jaap Sinninghe Damsté, a scientist at NIOZ and professor of organic geochemistry at Utrecht.&nbsp;</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-15-million-years-of-co2-levels-nbsp">15 million years of CO2 levels&nbsp;</h2>



<p>The experts were able to construct a unique time series of CO2 levels over the past 15 million years from a single location, a feat that had not been achieved before.&nbsp;</p>



<p>They used the TEX86 method to determine past seawater temperatures, a technique developed at NIOZ 20 years ago that analyzes the chemical composition of archaea membrane lipids.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-past-atmospheric-co2-concentrations">Past atmospheric CO2 concentrations</h2>



<p>Additionally, they developed a new method to estimate past atmospheric CO2 concentrations using the chemical signatures of chlorophyll and cholesterol from <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/crust-forming-algae-have-the-potential-to-dominate-coral-reefs/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">algae</a>. This approach is the first to use cholesterol for quantitative CO2 estimates and to apply chlorophyll data to this time period.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The algae’s preference for the carbon isotope 12C over 13C under varying CO2 levels allowed researchers to infer historical CO2 concentrations.</p>



<p>“The lower the CO2 concentration in the water, the more algae will also use the rare 13C. Thus, the 13C content of these two substances is a measure of the CO2 content of the ocean water,” Damsté explained.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-future-atmospheric-co2-concentrations">Future atmospheric CO2 concentrations</h2>



<p>The study revealed that <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/global-carbon-dioxide-emissions-hit-a-record-high-in-2023/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">CO2 levels</a> decreased from about 650 parts per million 15 million years ago to 280 parts per million just before the industrial revolution. Plotting these CO2 levels against corresponding temperatures showed a stronger relationship than previously recognized.</p>



<p>“So, this research gives us a glimpse of what the future could hold if we take too few measures to reduce CO2 <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/co2-emissions-reduction-20-percent-possible-only-2-percent-economic-loss/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">emissions</a> and also implement few technological innovations to offset emissions,” said Damsté.</p>



<p>“The clear warning from this research is: CO2 concentration is likely to have a stronger impact on temperature than we are currently taking into account!”&nbsp;</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-factors-contributing-to-atmospheric-co2-nbsp">Factors contributing to atmospheric CO2&nbsp;</h2>



<p>Atmospheric CO2 levels are influenced by a combination of natural processes and human activities.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Natural processes include the carbon cycle, where <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/sea-ice-reveals-that-co2-is-rising-at-the-fastest-rate-in-50000-years/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">CO2</a> is exchanged between the atmosphere, oceans, and land.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Photosynthesis by plants and phytoplankton absorbs CO2, while respiration and decomposition release it. Volcanic eruptions also contribute to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/wonder-material-can-extract-value-from-captured-carbon/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">CO2</a> levels.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Human activities have a significant impact, primarily through the burning of fossil fuels such as coal, oil, and natural gas, which releases large amounts of CO2.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Deforestation reduces the number of trees that can absorb CO2, further increasing atmospheric levels.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Industrial processes, such as cement production, also release CO2. Additionally, land use changes and agricultural practices can affect soil carbon storage and methane emissions, indirectly influencing CO2 levels.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-consequences-of-rising-temperatures">Consequences of rising temperatures</h2>



<p>Rising temperatures have far-reaching consequences for the planet. One significant impact is the alteration of weather patterns, leading to more frequent and severe weather events such as hurricanes, heatwaves, and heavy rainfall. </p>



<p>These changes can result in increased flooding, droughts, and other natural disasters, which disrupt ecosystems and human communities.</p>



<p>The warming climate also affects the natural habitats of many species, causing shifts in their geographical ranges and threatening biodiversity. Many species may face extinction if they cannot adapt quickly enough or migrate to suitable environments.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Additionally, warmer temperatures contribute to the melting of polar ice caps and glaciers, leading to rising sea levels. This threatens coastal communities with flooding and erosion, potentially displacing millions of people and affecting freshwater supplies.</p>



<p>Agricultural productivity is also impacted by rising temperatures. Heat stress can reduce crop yields and affect the quality of produce, posing challenges to food security. In regions already vulnerable to food shortages, this can exacerbate malnutrition and poverty.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Furthermore, warmer temperatures can increase the prevalence of pests and diseases that affect both plants and livestock, further straining agricultural systems.</p>



<p>Human health is directly affected by rising temperatures. Increased heat can lead to heat-related illnesses and deaths, particularly among vulnerable populations such as the elderly and those with preexisting health conditions. </p>



<p>Higher temperatures can also exacerbate air quality issues, contributing to respiratory problems and other health concerns.</p>



<p>The study is published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1038/s41467-024-47676-9" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><em>Nature Communications</em></a><em>.</em></p>



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Atmospheric CO2 could push temperatures much higher than expected

A doubling of atmospheric CO2 could significantly increase Earth's average...

<p>Magic mushrooms have become the most popular psychedelic substance in the United States, surpassing others like ecstasy, according to a new report by the <a href="https://www.rand.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">RAND Corporation</a>. </p>



<p>A national survey revealed that approximately 12% of respondents have used <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-did-magic-mushrooms-evolve-to-contain-psilocybin/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">psilocybin</a> at some point, with 3.1% using it in the past year, equating to about eight million American adults in 2023. </p>



<p>The study highlights the growing interest in psychedelics for mental health treatments and the evolving policy landscape surrounding their use.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-shifting-policies-and-the-future-of-psychedelics-nbsp">Shifting policies and the future of psychedelics&nbsp;</h2>



<p>Psychedelics have shown promise in treating <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/insightful-psychedelic-experiences-may-improve-mental-health/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">mental health</a> conditions, sparking increased enthusiasm over the past decade. However, there has been less focus on the shifting policies concerning these substances. </p>



<p>The report suggests that as state and local regulations ease, federal policymakers must decide whether to follow a for-profit cannabis model or explore alternative paths.</p>



<p>“The current situation with psychedelics reminds me of where we were with cannabis policy 12 years ago. Now is the time for federal policymakers to decide if they want to shape these policy changes or stay on the sidelines,” said study lead author Beau Kilmer, a senior policy researcher at RAND.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-data-from-thousands-of-americans-nbsp">Data from thousands of Americans&nbsp;</h2>



<p>The RAND report draws from a survey of 3,791 American adults, as well as data from the <a href="https://www.samhsa.gov/data/data-we-collect/nsduh-national-survey-drug-use-and-health" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">National Survey on Drug Use and Health</a> and the <a href="https://www.fbi.gov/how-we-can-help-you/more-fbi-services-and-information/ucr/nibrs" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">National Incident-Based Reporting System</a>. It also includes interviews with legal experts, policy advocates, researchers, and Indigenous community members regarding their traditional spiritual medicines.</p>



<p>Co-author Michelle Priest, an assistant policy researcher at RAND, emphasized the importance of engaging with Indigenous communities.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“Policy changes may affect Indigenous people who have longstanding traditions with certain spiritual medicines that are commonly referred to as psychedelics. Engaging respectfully with Indigenous community members who are authorized to speak on these topics can help craft policies that benefit from generations of wisdom while protecting Indigenous rights.”</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-lenient-approaches-to-psychedelics-nbsp">Lenient approaches to psychedelics&nbsp;</h2>



<p>Despite federal prohibitions, some state and local governments are adopting more lenient approaches to psychedelics.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The report highlights alternative models to the for-profit <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/cannabis-plants-could-help-in-the-fight-against-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cannabis</a> approach, such as allowing personal cultivation, non-profit collectives, or supervised use models like those in Oregon and soon in Colorado.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-cannabis-versus-psychedelics-nbsp">Cannabis versus psychedelics&nbsp;</h2>



<p>One key difference between cannabis and psychedelics policy debates is the role of supervision. Even in areas not adopting the supervision model, policymakers will need to address regulation of facilitators and supervision settings.</p>



<p>Unlike frequent cannabis users, psychedelic users tend to use these substances infrequently. The survey found that only 0.9% of respondents used <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-psilocybin-mushrooms-got-their-magic/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">psilocybin</a> in the past month, compared to 20% for cannabis. </p>



<p>The total number of use days in the past month was significantly lower for psychedelics (around seven million) compared to cannabis (about 650 million).</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-infrequent-use-of-magic-mushrooms">Infrequent use of magic mushrooms</h2>



<p>A notable finding is that infrequent users dominate the psychedelics market. For cannabis, infrequent users account for about 5% of total use days, while for psychedelics, they represent closer to 60%.</p>



<p>“While price is a major policy lever when we think about regulating cannabis and alcohol, it will likely play a much smaller role for psychedelics since infrequent users currently drive the market and they tend to spend relatively little on these substances,” said co-author Rajeev Ramchand, a senior behavioral scientist at RAND.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-further-research-is-needed-nbsp">Further research is needed&nbsp;</h2>



<p>The report indicates a significant gap in published research on psychedelic markets and usage patterns, especially for psilocybin. The authors recommend improving existing surveys and conducting qualitative, longitudinal research with users and producers of psychedelics.</p>



<p>The RAND report underscores the need for informed policymaking as the landscape for psychedelic substances evolves, highlighting the importance of protecting both public health and the rights of Indigenous communities.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-why-have-magic-mushrooms-become-so-popular">Why have magic mushrooms become so popular?</h2>



<p>Magic mushrooms have become popular due to their perceived therapeutic benefits and the growing acceptance of psychedelic substances in mental health treatment.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Studies suggest that compounds like psilocybin can help alleviate symptoms of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/compound-in-magic-mushrooms-effectively-treats-depression/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">depression</a>, anxiety, and PTSD, leading to increased interest from both the medical community and the public. </p>



<p>Additionally, cultural shifts towards holistic and alternative therapies, along with the destigmatization of drug use, have contributed to their popularity.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Personal testimonials and media coverage highlighting positive experiences have further fueled curiosity and acceptance. As research continues to support their potential benefits, the interest in magic mushrooms is likely to grow.</p>



<p>The report can be found <a href="https://www.rand.org/pubs/research_reports/RRA2825-1.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">here</a>.</p>



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Magic mushrooms are the most popular psychedelic drug

Magic mushrooms have become the most popular psychedelic substance in...

<div class="vdb_player vdb_591c9e3c9efa894c3c6e150b58d96b98cd4fed198a0d2a49"><script type="text/javascript" src="//delivery.vidible.tv/jsonp/pid=591c9e3c9efa894c3c6e150b/vid=592d9a0c2ba1881da398df77/58d96b98cd4fed198a0d2a49.js"></script></div>
<p>Sentinel-3A captured part of Japan on May 12 in this amazing image. Sitting on a volcanic zone in the Pacific Ring of Fire, Japan is prone to earthquakes. In 2011 the Tōhoku earthquake and subsequent tsunami caused claimed over 15,000 lives.</p>
<p>We can make out the location of the Median Tectonic Line in this image – a fault system running primarily northeast–southwest in the southern part of the country. Rivers formed along the line, and the fields and buildings in these river basins are visible as in the lower left part of the image giving a sense of the general location of the fault.</p>
<p>The water surrounding the islands appears blue on the left side of the picture, but dark gray on the right. This is an effect of the Sun glinting on the water.</p>
<p>The light blue areas show the outflow of rivers, carrying sediments into the ocean.</p>
<p>&#8212;</p>
<p>Credit: <a href="http://www.esa.int">European Space Agency</a></p>


Satellite image of Japan