Climate Change Adaptation
Articles tagged with Climate Change Adaptation
Study provides detailed assessment of shifts in toxin producing phytoplankton abundance
Combined short-term effects of air pollutants linked to 146,500 premature deaths per year in Europe
Protected area managers across Europe are adapting to climate change
Scientists seek to understand effects of rain falling on snow in the Arctic
Bigger and wetter storms mean drier conditions over time
Predicting typhoon intensity using ocean surface temperatures
Greening works, but cities must plan it smarter
A recent study analyzed 138 Indian cities using satellite data and explainable AI methods to show why urban greening needs to be tailored to humidity, canopy structure, and airflow. The findings highlight the importance of considering moisture management and ventilation in urban planning to effectively mitigate heat-related stress.
Genomic insights unlocked: adaptive divergence of Capsella bursa-pastoris across altitudinal gradients
Tulane researchers say Louisiana could lead global climate adaptation efforts
Researchers argue that Louisiana's climate-driven land loss and population shifts could position the state as a global leader in planning for climate adaptation. The study combines coastal geology with archaeology, demography, and public policy to outline a long-term vision for the region.
Nature loss brings catastrophic risks – new report
A new report highlights the catastrophic risks of nature loss on food systems, economies and societies. Chronic pressures like soil degradation and water scarcity are already reducing crop yields and increasing food prices.
Just a few species can drive a plant community's response to warming temperatures
A new analysis confirms that a small number of plant species drive changes in community temperature profiles under warming temperatures. The study found that these dominant species remain influential even as warming increases, making it easier to manage for climate change by focusing on key contributors.
FAU study reveals how camels ‘beat the heat’ at the cellular level
Researchers found that camels have a more flexible and coordinated response to heat stress, allowing them to maintain stability even at higher temperatures. In contrast, human cells tend to respond in a more rigid way, making them less adaptable under heat stress.
Study: Faced with a hotter future, America needs better data and response plans
A new study from the University of Kansas examines extreme heat events in the US, finding a lack of consistent national framework for responding to heat events. Effective responses require reliable data and clear understanding of responsibility across different levels of government.
English farmers increased their sustainability between 2010 and 2021
Researchers found significant decreases in greenhouse gas emissions, fertilizer overuse, and cattle populations among English farmers. The study's findings highlight the importance of regular assessments of farming's environmental impacts to inform policy and management.
New method to raise investment funds for projects that restore coastal wetlands for climate adaptation
A new tool has been developed to fund wetland conservation and restoration projects through verifiable Coastal Resilience Assets. This approach uses engineering methods to quantify the impacts of conservation and restoration projects on property value protected from flooding, providing a clear and tangible use case for asset buyers.
Scientists call for integrating three energy demand goals into climate policy by 2035
A new study calls for tripling energy efficiency, electrification and action against extreme energy consumption by 2035. This would accelerate the spread of efficient technologies and generate revenue to expand energy access and support low-carbon investment.
Temperature extremes and variability might be worst for the most vulnerable baby birds - the youngest, smallest, and most neglected nestlings - per study of 113 baby barn swallows in Colorado
A study of 113 baby barn swallows in Colorado found that temperature extremes and variability negatively impact the youngest, smallest, and most neglected nestlings. The research suggests that developmental constraints play a crucial role in determining the effects of temperature on nestling growth.
GREEN TALENT project organizes four DemoHub workshops for capacity-building across Europe
The GREEN TALENT project organized four DemoHub workshops in Malta, Greece, Cyprus, and Bulgaria to foster collaboration, innovation, and hands-on learning. The workshops focused on addressing climate and biodiversity challenges, engaging island communities, policymakers, and experts.
Relocating Venice among the options explored to protect city against sea-level rise
A new study explores potential options for Venice to adapt to sea-level rise, including relocating the city, movable barriers, ring dikes, and closing the Venetian Lagoon. The research suggests that no single approach is optimal, requiring a balance of factors such as resident wellbeing, economic prosperity, and cultural heritage.
AMS science preview: AI forecast limits, unpredictable hurricanes, simplified heat index
New research from the American Meteorological Society explores AI forecasting limits, the impact of climate change on hurricane trends, and simplifies the heat index. The studies find that machine learning can outperform numerical physics-based models in certain conditions, but not universally.
Concordia research simplifies method for estimating climate impact of reflective surfaces
A new study by Hashem Akbari offers a simplified way to calculate the climate impact of reflective surfaces, allowing policy practitioners to view problems on a regional basis. Increasing albedo by 0.01 can offset about 1.8 to 2 kilograms of CO₂ per square metre globally, with some regions reaching up to 5 kilograms.
Hurricane-resilient coastal forests in the Northeastern U.S. may be nearing their limits
Researchers found a significant reduction in tree-ring growth after major hurricanes, but these trees can recover quickly within two years. Coastal forests in the Northeastern US are vulnerable to sea-level rise and stand dead or dying trees, posing a threat to densely populated communities.
Envisioning just futures
A new IIASA-led study offers a practical approach to evaluate the distributional implications of climate action, enabling policymakers to assess justice impacts of emissions pathways. The study found that many existing mitigation scenarios are consistent with justice principles, while few explore limits on energy or meat consumption.
Street green space can help cool cities, but it will not be enough on its own
A new study reveals that street greenery can reduce heat stress in cities, but its benefits depend on local conditions. The cooling effect is stronger in tropical and continental climates, but weaker in dry and temperate climates.
Mangrove crab outruns its namesake in climate-driven coastal shift
A study reveals that Atlantic mangrove fiddler crabs are settling into temperate salt marshes along the southeastern US coast due to climate change. The species is expanding its range northward, with some populations reaching as far as South Carolina, and may soon spread to North Carolina.
New study pinpoints climate conditions for restoring the endangered butternut tree
Researchers at Virginia Tech used modern data science to guide restoration strategies for the endangered butternut tree. The study mapped climate and soil conditions linked to natural disease resistance, identifying prime regions for resistant butternut trees and hybrids across the eastern United States.
Modeling mangroves' capacity to protect coastal communities
Researchers from Kyoto University developed a numerical model to evaluate mangrove wave attenuation, revealing that root submersion and water depth significantly impact wave reduction. The study's findings suggest that mangroves can mitigate disasters and help communities adapt to climate change.
Cow manure digesters really cut methane — unless they leak
A new study finds that dairy manure digesters are highly effective in reducing methane emissions from cow manure, with most systems performing well. However, occasional leaks of large magnitude offset the climate benefits, highlighting the need for thorough monitoring and verification.
New model shows how behavioral flexibility affects animal evolution
A new model by Carlos Botero suggests that animals with moderate behavioral flexibility can quickly adapt to environmental changes and evolve new forms, challenging the assumption that slow-evolving species are at higher risk from climate change. The model predicts that flexible lineages may fare better than previously thought.
FAU study finds parasites defy biodiversity rules, thriving far from the equator
Researchers found that trematode parasites are more abundant in cooler temperate waters, defying the typical pattern of higher biodiversity near the equator. Temperature and host mobility play a major role in shaping parasite distributions, with certain species thriving in areas where hosts can tolerate infections better.
Biochar offers climate-smart path to restore dryland soils and fight desertification
A new review highlights biochar's potential to reverse land degradation, improve soil health, and support sustainable agriculture in arid regions. Biochar can increase crop yields, reduce erosion risks, and enhance soil resilience, while also contributing to global carbon sequestration efforts.
One-of-a-kind experiment tracked plant evolution in response to climate change at 30 sites worldwide
A groundbreaking experiment tracked plant evolution in response to climate change across 30 sites worldwide, revealing gene variants associated with successful adaptation and tipping points beyond which plants can't adapt. The study provides quantitative data to understand rapid adaptation and predict where risks lie.
Evolution in fast-forward: How thale cress adapts – or goes extinct
Researchers tracked genetic changes in Arabidopsis thaliana across 30 sites over five years, finding most populations adapted to local environmental conditions. However, some populations went extinct due to genetic drift, highlighting the importance of preserving biodiversity.
Justice in achieving climate goals: Researchers at the University of Graz highlight the need for fair country shares in carbon dioxide removal
A new study highlights the importance of fair distribution of carbon dioxide removal rights among countries to halt global warming. The researchers found that unequal allocation can entrench inequality, shifting the climate burden onto future generations.
Reading the mud: Central Asia's rivers hold a hidden timeline of human pollution
Researchers from Beijing Normal University decode historical chemical footprint in Mongolia's Orkhon River Basin to track toxic emissions drivers. The study reveals a link between economic booms and traffic jams and chemical fallout, providing insights for rewriting water management policies across Central Asia.
No delta left behind? Study finds that most deltas can adapt to rising seas... for now
A global assessment of 800 deltas reveals that nearly all can adapt to sea-level rise using existing technology and space. However, large and densely populated deltas face greater challenges, while smaller deltas have more flexibility with low-resource measures. Collaboration and innovation may expand adaptation opportunities.
Extreme global climate outcomes are possible even at 2°C of warming
A new study by UFZ researchers warns that extreme global climate outcomes are possible even at moderate levels of global warming, such as 2°C. Sector-specific drivers like precipitation extremes and droughts can lead to severe impacts in vulnerable regions. The study highlights the need for ambitious climate mitigation measures to limi...
Jupiter Intelligence and Stockholm Environment Institute partner to map climate risk across global mineral, energy, and food supply chains
The collaboration aims to assess cross-border climate risk across the minerals-energy-food complex using Jupiter's ClimateScore Global platform. The MEF complex framework examines how climate hazards propagate through supply chains, affecting commodity prices and the pace of the energy transition.
Beyond climate resilience: the science of thriving in a chaotic world
A study from Michigan State University reveals that extreme weather can actually strengthen certain ecosystems, leading to increased productivity and resilience. The researchers found that phytoplankton species, which are crucial for removing carbon dioxide from the air, thrive when temperature fluctuations increase.
New paper outlines pathways to equitable flood adaptation
A new perspective in Nature Water highlights how urban flooding measures often exacerbate environmental injustices for society's most vulnerable groups. The study identifies two main reasons for this unequal distribution of risk: higher exposure to climate hazards and limited resources, leading to a lower capacity to bounce back.
New research outlines pathway to achieve high well-being and a safe climate without economic growth
A study by the Institute of Environmental Science and Technology of the Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona establishes the principles for modelling post-growth scenarios, pointing to the need for targeted demand-side measures and investments in low-carbon technologies. The research highlights the potential for post-growth to achieve pos...
AMS Science Preview: Mississippi River, ocean carbon storage, gender and floods
Researchers investigated the Mississippi River's hydrological trends, ocean carbon storage, and gender dynamics in flood mortality. A study found that precipitation increases, but soil moisture decreases, while high-resolution models reveal stronger Southern Ocean carbon absorption. Additionally, data showed men are overrepresented in ...
Plants pause, play and fast forward growth depending on types of climate stress
Researchers at the University of British Columbia have identified genes and pathways responsible for plant recovery from environmental stress, including cold snaps and flooding. This discovery could lead to the creation of climate-resilient crops that can recover faster and more efficiently after climate events.
Climate extremes hinder early development in young birds
Research finds extreme cold and rain reduce young bird growth and survival, but earlier breeding can mitigate these effects. In contrast, hot extremes can boost growth by increasing insect activity and visibility.
New research shows path to affordable water in fast-growing cities
A new study finds that Pune's reservoirs will likely dry up and groundwater levels will plummet by the middle of this century if the city maintains current policies. However, the research shows these outcomes can be avoided with certain policy interventions.
Exposure to life-limiting heat has soared around the planet
A new study finds that the amount of time per year that extreme heat makes it unsafe to go about daily life has doubled since the 1950s, with younger adults facing 2x more hours of heat-related limitations, while older adults face 50% more
Genetic mapping of Baltic Sea herring important for sustainable fishing
A new study by Stockholm University researchers reveals distinct populations of Baltic Sea herring with varying levels of genetic adaptation to local conditions. The findings highlight the importance of genetic diversity in managing herring populations and suggest that current fishing practices may be detrimental to local populations.
Climate projections warn 20% of Colombia’s cocoa-growing areas could be lost by 2050, but adaptation options remain
Climate projections warn that nearly 20% of Colombia's cocoa-growing areas could lose suitable climate conditions by 2050, particularly in the Caribbean region. However, adaptation options such as wild cocoa, agroforestry systems, and conservation of native forests may help mitigate these impacts.
Forest damage could double: How fires, storms, and bark beetles will shape the future of Europe’s forests
A study predicts that forest damage in Europe will more than double by 2100 due to increased wildfires, storms, and bark beetle activity. The team used AI-based simulation models to estimate the impact of global warming on forest ecosystems.
Hairdressers could be a secret weapon in tackling climate change, new research finds
Research from the University of Bath's Centre for Climate Change and Social Transformations reveals that hairdressers can prompt climate conversations and inspire change. Salon owners reported successful conversations with clients about sustainability, leading to changes in habits such as water and energy usage, and even dietary choices.
GRACE: A new Horizon Europe project empowering Europe’s remote rural communities to become drivers of transformative climate action
The GRACE project co-develops, tests, and scales climate adaptation solutions with local communities in 10 European regions. It addresses diverse climate challenges through community-led adaptation, digital tools, and capacity-building, ensuring locally relevant and transferable solutions.
Sustainability research overlooks key actors and actions in the face of the environmental crisis
A new study reveals major blind spots in global sustainable research, overlooking key strategies and sectors needed to address the environmental crisis. The study finds that sustainability researchers are neglecting potentially powerful actors, including civil society, and failing to assign clear responsibilities across sectors.
Access to safe water fails in the face of extreme heat, even in wealthy cities
A recent study highlights the link between water security and adaptability of homes in urban centers of the Global North to extreme heat. Household water security is not universal, even in the wealthiest cities, forcing vulnerable households to limit their water consumption, compromising their ability to adapt to extreme heat.
Indigenous Peoples and local communities in three continents report a drastic decline in bird body mass
A global study documents the collective ecological memory of Indigenous Peoples and local communities, revealing a consistent pattern of large-bodied bird species disappearing from local environments replaced by smaller-bodied species, with average bird mass declining from 1500g to 535g over eight decades.
AMS Science Preview: Hurricane slowdown, school snow days
A new study finds that U.S. tornado activity is shifting southeastward due to the relationship between extratropical cyclones and low-pressure systems. Additionally, global warming has led to a fourfold increase in tropical cyclone rapid slowdown events in coastal areas.
Climate policy support is linked to emotions - study
A study by Anglia Ruskin University found that feeling fearful is associated with greater support for climate policies, while feelings of dread lead to lower support. The researchers suggest that evoking manageable levels of fear can motivate people to engage and support solutions.
Root microbes could help oak trees adapt to drought
Research found that oak tree microbiomes are resilient to environmental stressors like drought and disease, with subtle changes in root microbiota after prolonged drought. The study suggests a potential role for beneficial bacteria in supporting tree resilience and stability.
Bison hunters abandoned long-used site 1,100 years ago to adapt to changing climate
Researchers found that bison hunters stopped using a kill site in central Montana around 1,100 years ago due to severe droughts. The team's study suggests that environmental stressors, social and economic pressures, and the need for larger hunting operations drove the abandonment of the site.
Climate benefits of tree planting could be reduced by soil carbon loss, Stirling professor warns
A University of Stirling professor has warned that tree-planting may not be as effective at reducing climate change as previously assumed due to potential soil carbon losses. The study found that deep soils in forests may lose more carbon over time than expected, which could reduce the net climate benefits of tree planting.