Researchers use DNA in feathers to create tags that reveal population sizes, parentage, roosting patterns, and sex ratios. This technique allows for easier study of larger populations without capturing birds.
Scientists at Oregon State University found that Pacific Northwest forests have significant potential to increase carbon storage, with estimated increases of 15% if all forest stands were allowed to increase in age by 50 years. This region accounts for 14% of the live biomass in the entire US and has already sequestered 30-50% of emiss...
The development of genetically modified trees is being obstructed by anti-biotech groups and regulations that prioritize process over product. Researchers argue that a regulatory environment focused on scientific case-by-case assessments is necessary to unlock the full potential of forest biotechnology.
Michigan State University scientists combine sustainable forest production with emerging carbon markets to help poorest people grow trees that boost their standards of living and slow climate change. By storing carbon in the soil, farmers can earn money on the global carbon market and use tree products for energy and food.
Year 10 students from Hadden Park High School in Nottingham are using advanced GPS technology to map fragments of heathland at Sherwood Pines Forest Park. The project aims to raise awareness of heathland and develop habitat corridors to protect species affected by climate change.
A new hybrid of the American chestnut tree has been developed that can sequester more carbon than other hardwood species. The trees grow faster and larger, allowing them to store more carbon in a shorter amount of time, which could help slow climate change.
A new report finds that paying to conserve billions of tons of carbon stored in tropical forests could also protect endangered large mammals like orangutans and pygmy elephants. The study, published in Conservation Letters, demonstrates a link between forest protection and biodiversity conservation.
A Yale analysis of 240 studies found that forest ecosystems recover in 42 years, ocean bottoms in less than 10 years, and those affected by human-induced disturbances recover faster than natural events. The study suggests that restoration can become a key tool for conservation organizations to protect habitats.
The $9.16m Carbon Benefits Project aims to encourage sustainable development schemes that generate climate adaptation, mitigation and conservation benefits. The innovative web-based system will measure and model greenhouse gas emissions produced and stored in soil and vegetation.
Researcher identifies wind erosion, salinization, and waterlogging as major land degradation indicators in Abu Dhabi Emirate. The study suggests conservation strategies and management options to combat desertification through better resource management.
A Purdue University study found that animals can easily access runway areas, increasing the likelihood of plane strikes. The study suggests enclosing airport perimeters with partially buried fencing and frequent maintenance to deter wildlife.
MSU researchers are leading an international project to develop systems to measure, monitor, and manage carbon in landscapes worldwide. The goal is to help growers around the world better protect their land, improve productivity, and fight global climate change by providing a tool to assess their carbon and climate impact.
A recent paper suggests legislation is only part of the solution to Europe's invasive species problem, with a single coordinating body needed to tackle the issue effectively. The European Centre for Invasive Species Management (ECISM) would coordinate activities across Member States and support rapid response and public awareness.
Researchers have identified new alternative substrates to pine bark and peatmoss, finding that landscape annuals can thrive in ground pine tree and pine bark substrates. The study showed comparable foliage growth, flower density, and root proliferation for plants grown in both substrates.
Two graduate students, Adam Roddy and Anna Maria Stewart, receive AIBS Emerging Public Policy Leadership Award for their contributions to science and public policy. The award includes a certificate, membership, publications, and opportunities to meet with policymakers.
A new study by University of Toronto scientists links Indonesian forest fires to changes in land use and population density, revealing a direct impact on haze disasters and greenhouse gas emissions.
A recent study by Arizona State University's Charles Perrings highlights the substantial economic impact of invasive species on agriculture, fisheries, forestry, and ecosystems. In some countries, such as South Africa and Brazil, invasive species account for up to 112% of agricultural GDP.
The study found that plant and forestry waste, dedicated energy crops, and cellulosic ethanol could sustainably produce 90 billion gallons of ethanol by 2030. Cellulosic biofuels could compete with oil without incentives at $90 per barrel, assuming reduced costs.
The discovery of new mammalian species since 1993 reveals a significant reduction in biodiversity, with many species having small populations or limited geographic ranges. This loss can have severe consequences, including increased disease risk and reduced ecosystem services that support human life.
A new study uses airborne technology to track changes in Big Island tropical forests, revealing how climate and invasive species affect carbon stocks. The research finds that fast-growing invaders decrease biomass levels, while slower-growing species increase biomass stocks.
Research by Northern Arizona University ties tree mortality to climate change, with a significant increase in death rates across the western US. The study, led by Phillip J. van Mantgem and Nathan L. Stephenson, analyzed long-term data from over 6,000 trees and found that regional warming is a key factor contributing to this trend.
A UGA study by Warnell researchers found that just five breeding pairs of ivory-billed woodpeckers could have ensured the species' persistence in southeastern US forests. The analysis suggests sufficient reproduction and survival rates are more important than large numbers of individuals.
Three Palauans, Uelbil Puanani Michael, Omekrael Sadang, and Sheldon Siksei, have been selected as interns in the US Forest Service's Professional Internships in Pacific Terrestrial Island Ecosystem Management program. They will work on forestry projects in their home islands and later implement focus projects with mentors.
Three Kosraeans, Maximilian Nithan, Jacob Sanney, and Rickson Johnithan, have been selected as interns in the US Forest Service's Professional Internships program. They will address watershed management issues and implement focus projects to improve forestry practices in their communities.
Two Samoan students, Fa'afo'i Tony Maugalei and John Ah Sue, have been selected as part of the US Forest Service's Professional Internships in Pacific Terrestrial Island Ecosystem Management program. They will develop and evaluate an agroforestry project on private lands to demonstrate economically viable forest management methods.
The US Forest Service has selected two Pohnpeian students, Fa'afo'i Tony Maugalei and John Ah Sue, as part of its Professional Internships in Pacific Terrestrial Island Ecosystem Management program. The program aims to recruit and train the next generation of forestry professionals in the Pacific Islands.
A study by Seong-Hyun Park and Richard H. Mattson found that hospital patients with plants in their rooms had fewer intakes of pain medication and more positive physiological responses. Patients interacted with the plants, such as watering and pruning, indicating a therapeutic benefit.
The Tree Carbon Calculator provides quantifiable incentives for tree planting and stewardship projects. It calculates the dry weight of biomass that would be obtained if a tree were removed, offering a valuable resource for urban forestry efforts.
A comprehensive analysis by CIFOR offers options to address forest destruction and degradation's role in global greenhouse gas emissions. The report suggests integrating REDD with tighter emissions targets for a more ambitious climate strategy.
The report warns of devastating effects on forests and communities due to climate change; adaptation measures, such as improving forest management and conserving ecosystems, are crucial to mitigate the impacts. Forests provide vital ecosystem services and income for millions of people.
The World Agroforestry Centre argues that existing technology can effectively monitor carbon storage in developing countries, potentially saving more carbon than closing 1,400 coal-burning power plants. Implementing carbon markets could generate $10 billion annually for rural poor communities.
A researcher has discovered a tool that can reveal hundreds of hidden meteorite craters using aerial forest surveys. The technology was tested on a crater near Whitecourt, Alberta, and shows great potential for finding more undiscovered sites globally.
A comprehensive overview of alien species in Europe reveals over 11,000 documented species, with 15% causing economic damages and 15% harming biological diversity. The DAISIE project provides a valuable tool for managing biological invasions in Europe, enabling early detection, eradication, and control methods.
Researchers found that urban tree roots can penetrate compacted subsoils, increasing infiltration rates by up to 153% in reservoirs. Structural soil reservoirs also showed a 27-fold increase in infiltration rate compared to unplanted controls.
Researchers convert olive stones into bioethanol using low-cost, eco-friendly process. Yields of 5.7kg ethanol per 100kg of olive stones reached in study published in Journal of Chemical Technology & Biotechnology.
Researchers highlight the need for improved efficiency in nanomanufacturing to reduce energy use, emissions, and solid waste. Studies show that nanoscale production can have greater environmental burdens than conventional manufacturing methods.
A recent study found that living in areas with more green space is associated with slower increases in children's body mass over time, regardless of residential density or age. This suggests a long-term positive impact on children's health and weight.
A new study by Purdue University researchers found that inbreeding is not responsible for the high incidence of malformation among salamanders. The study of 2,000 adult and juvenile salamanders revealed an 8% rate of deformities, including missing or extra digits, similar to those seen in frog species.
The Soil Science Society of America presented several awards to recognize outstanding contributions in precision agriculture and soil management. The Lloyd R. Frederick Soil Teaching Travel Award supports international teaching experiences for top soil science instructors, while the L.R. Ahuja Ag Systems Modeling Award honors early car...
New research suggests that the process of manufacturing nanomaterials can offset their environmental benefits, with some studies indicating life-cycle impacts 100 times greater than traditional materials. This challenges the assumption that nanomaterials will lead to reduced energy and resource use.
Research shows that recognizing local rights and tenure systems is cost-effective and can secure carbon credits, while indigenous communities prove to be good forest stewards. Poorly designed initiatives could fuel corruption and conflict.
The Indonesian government and World Wildlife Fund announce a commitment to protect Sumatra's forests and critical ecosystems, home to endangered species. The agreement aims to restore ecosystems and promote sustainable development on the island.
Scientists measure radionuclides in soil to understand sediment sources in rivers, revealing that streambank erosion contributes significantly to sediment loads. The study's findings can inform efforts to rehabilitate streams and preserve aquatic populations.
Researchers are working to produce 'European-style' Christmas trees that meet public preferences for natural, open shapes with more space for ornaments. The use of advanced shearing techniques, such as the Top-Stop Nipper, shows promise for improving tree quality and marketability.
The symposium explores carbon sequestration methods, including forest management, agriculture, and ocean carbon capture. Experts discuss the importance of addressing legal and regulatory challenges to ensure effective carbon sinks.
Researchers at MIT have developed a sensor system that harnesses electricity from trees to predict and prevent forest fires. The system, which uses off-the-shelf batteries slowly recharged by tree power, can transmit temperature and humidity data wirelessly, enabling early alerts and improved fire prediction models.
A report by Wildlife Conservation Society reveals a large population of threatened monkeys, including 42,000 black-shanked douc langurs and 2,500 yellow-cheeked crested gibbons, in Cambodia's Seima Biodiversity Conservation Area. The populations have remained stable since 2005 and are estimated to be the largest known in the world.
Researchers at Purdue University have developed a technology that uses live fish embryos to detect harmful chemicals in water, providing an early warning system for environmental contamination. The tool measures oxygen use in developing fish, revealing minute levels of toxic substances before they cause harm.
Inwood Hill Park faces challenges preserving native species due to human impact and invasive species proliferation. A collaborative research approach can help understand plant losses and address causes, ensuring the survival of future plantings.
Researchers from Virginia Tech have identified a region of virulence proteins that enables them to enter the cells of their hosts, suppressing the immune system and allowing infection to progress. The discovery may lead to new approaches for blocking infections by both oomycete and malaria parasites.
Wealthy nations willing to spend $1 billion annually could prevent half a billion metric tons of carbon dioxide from being emitted globally over the next 25 years. The program, called 'avoided deforestation,' would put an end to a tenth of tropical deforestation, one of the top contributors to greenhouse gas emissions.
Low-budget, locally led mangrove replanting projects are more successful than high-cost government-led projects, achieving survival rates of up to 97%. Planting the correct species in suitable sites and community involvement are key to ecological benefits.
The journal will play a key role in the Asia-Pacific Region's entomological research community, publishing original research papers and review articles. Elsevier has agreed to publish the journal on behalf of three societies, aiming to promote leading entomological research from Asia and worldwide.
NASA deployed its unmanned Ikhana aircraft to gather information on over 300 wildfires burning in California, providing commanders with location and size data to deploy firefighting assets. The flights use a sophisticated sensor that can detect temperature differences up to 1,000 degrees Fahrenheit.
Researchers at the University of Missouri have discovered that submerged oak trees can store carbon for up to 14,000 years, significantly longer than trees in forests. This process reveals the importance of proper tree disposal and benefits of riparian forests in reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
The EcoNet wireless sensor network allows for continuous and inconspicuous monitoring of environmental factors such as temperature and luminosity in remote locations. This enables researchers to uncover anomalies early on and investigate them promptly, providing valuable insights into global environmental changes.
Yale Environment 360, a new online magazine, covers global environmental issues with reports, analysis, and Op-Ed-style pieces. The site features original articles by leading journalists, scientists, and experts, showcasing diverse perspectives on climate change, energy policy, and more.
Diporeia, a small crustacean, has declined dramatically in Lake Michigan and other Great Lakes, threatening the ecosystem and $4 billion sport fishing industry. Researchers are exploring possible causes, including invasive mussels and pollutants like pesticides and PCBs.
A study by the USDA Forest Service found that Indianapolis street trees annually intercept 318.9 million gallons of rainfall, valued at $1.98 million, and reduce electricity use by over 6,447 megawatt hours, worth $432,000. The trees also improve air quality and increase property values.
Research by Gary Brase shows that people prefer simple frequencies and percentages over large numbers when understanding numerical information. Presenting numerical data in multiple formats can help convey important information effectively.