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Three things to know: Climate change’s impact on extreme-weather events

Researchers investigated climate change's effect on extreme weather events like wildfires and found a 'worst-case' scenario could lead to significant increases in intensity, frequency, and duration. The study emphasizes the need for proactive measures, including emission reductions and adaptation strategies, to build resilience.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJul 3, 2023
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

Apple iPhone 17 Pro delivers top performance and advanced cameras for field documentation, data collection, and secure research communications.

Early birds of the future: earlier, but still too late?

A study by the Netherlands Institute of Ecology found that great tits are struggling to adapt their breeding timing to cope with climate change, leading to a decline in population numbers. The researchers used innovative methods to speed up evolution and predict the impact of climate change on natural selection.

SourceNetherlands Institute of Ecology (NIOO-KNAW)·JournalScience Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 30, 2023

Study advances understanding of anthropogenic effects on climate change

A University of California, Riverside-led team found that anthropogenic aerosol-driven changes in ocean circulation and interbasin heat transport are more effective in altering oceanic heat distribution than those driven by globally increasing greenhouse gases. This advance in understanding will help develop climate mitigation strategies.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalNature Geoscience·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJun 30, 2023

TGI-led research finds climate change, increasing population put Kenya at risk of famine

A recent study by Saint Louis University researchers found that Kenya's population has more than tripled since 1980, while climate-suitable areas for primary crops have decreased by 28% over the same period. This shift is due to increased dryness and higher temperatures reducing agricultural productivity.

SourceSaint Louis University·JournalOutlook on Agriculture·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJun 29, 2023
Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach

Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach provides rugged GNSS navigation, satellite messaging, and SOS for backcountry geology and climate field teams.

What controls the pathways of the Labrador Current?

Researchers from McGill University found that stronger winds shift the Labrador Current eastward, leading to sudden warmings or drops in oxygen levels. This has dire consequences for marine ecosystems and fisheries, including smaller species like cod and halibut, which struggle to survive in low-oxygen conditions.

SourceMcGill University·JournalNature Communications·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJun 28, 2023

US public pensions could be $21 billion richer right now

Researchers found that US public pension funds would have seen a 13% higher return on investments if they had divested from fossil fuels a decade ago. Divestment also reduced the carbon footprint of portfolios equivalent to powering 35 million homes per year.

SourceUniversity of Waterloo·DateJun 28, 2023
Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm)

Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm) tracks health metrics and safety alerts during long observing sessions, fieldwork, and remote expeditions.

European bird communities move to cooler areas, but mountain ranges and coastlines ‘control the traffic’

Researchers found that two-thirds of European bird species shifted northeastward by an average of 100km over the past 30 years, with coastal communities facing extinction. Mountain ranges also controlled bird migrations, preventing some species from adapting to changing temperatures.

SourceUniversity of Helsinki·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJun 27, 2023

New geochemistry research confirms megalodon shark was warm-blooded

A new study published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences confirms that the Megalodon shark was warm-blooded, with a body temperature estimated at around 27°C. This discovery provides empirical evidence for the extinct species' internal heat production, shedding light on its biology and ecological role.

SourceWilliam Paterson University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 26, 2023
Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4)

Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4) runs demanding GIS, imaging, and annotation workflows on the go for surveys, briefings, and lab notebooks.

Study explores climate change impacts on seagrass meadows

A new Stanford University study models the distribution of seagrass species around the world at two different timepoints in the future, predicting widespread reductions in species diversity and composition under all scenarios. The research highlights the need for more intentional conservation efforts and emphasizes that even the curren...

SourceStanford University·JournalNature Plants·DateJun 20, 2023
GoPro HERO13 Black

GoPro HERO13 Black records stabilized 5.3K video for instrument deployments, field notes, and outreach, even in harsh weather and underwater conditions.

New study reveals irrigation’s mixed effects around the world

A recent study analyzed over 200 previous studies to assess the impact of irrigation on regional climates and environments. The researchers found that while irrigation supplies 40% of the world's food, it also has significant effects on regional climates and environments, with some areas being already unsustainable or verging on scarcity.

SourceNew York University·JournalNature Reviews Earth & Environment·DateJun 20, 2023

Assessment of how climate scientists communicate risk shows imperfections, improvements

A study by climate experts reveals that while some aspects of sea level rise risk assessment have improved, others remain imperfect, particularly in conveying 'unquantifiable' uncertainties. Improvements in language and graphics are being incorporated into climate reports, informing civic leaders to counter rising seas effects.

SourceRutgers University·JournalNature Climate Change·TypeLiterature review·DateJun 19, 2023

AI reveals hidden traits about our planet's flora to help save species

A new machine learning algorithm analyzed high-resolution digital images of herbarium specimens, revealing that factors other than climate have a strong effect on leaf size within a plant species. The study also demonstrates how AI can be used to transform static specimen collections and quickly document climate change effects.

SourceUniversity of New South Wales·JournalAmerican Journal of Botany·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJun 19, 2023

A holistic approach to addressing food security in Africa

The article discusses the growing challenge of food security in Africa, particularly with regards to rice production and consumption. The research reveals that socioeconomic developments have a more substantial influence on rice availability than gradual climate change, but climatic anomalies pose a significant threat to stability. Div...

SourceInternational Institute for Applied Systems Analysis·JournalNature Food·DateJun 19, 2023

Climate change likely led to violence in early Andean populations

Researchers at UC Davis found a pattern of increased violence during climatic change in the south central Andes between A.D. 470 and 1500. Decreased precipitation predicts increased rates of cranial trauma, suggesting climate change exerted a significant effect on interpersonal violence.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalQuaternary Research·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJun 15, 2023
SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB

SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB transfers large imagery and model outputs quickly between field laptops, lab workstations, and secure archives.

Shock to the crop system

A new study by University of Delaware researchers assesses the effects of climate variability on crop production in the US. The study reveals that fluctuations in planted and harvested areas contribute significantly to crop production shocks, which can have severe impacts on food stability.

SourceUniversity of Delaware·JournalNature Sustainability·DateJun 15, 2023

Building a blueprint for zero-emissions agriculture

The article discusses the challenges of reducing agricultural greenhouse gas emissions to zero, but found that technology can help farmers lower pollution by up to 45 percent. The study proposes using carbon-free energy sources, sustainably produced bioenergy, and techniques to capture emissions from these energy sources.

SourceCarnegie Institution for Science·JournalEnvironmental Research Letters·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJun 14, 2023

Ocean current comes to the rescue for Pacific island reefs

Researchers have identified a phenomenon that could help coral reef managers plan and act for the future. Ocean processes during El Niño strengthened the North Equatorial Counter Current, driving cooler plankton-rich waters to Palmyra's coral reefs and enabling them to better manage heat stress.

SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalScience Advances·DateJun 14, 2023
AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope

AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope supports teaching labs and QA checks with LED illumination, mechanical stage, and included 5MP camera.

Climate change: Rising rainfall, not temperatures, threaten giraffe survival

Climate change affects giraffe populations differently than expected, with higher temperatures positively affecting adult survival but rainier wet seasons negatively impacting both adults and calves. Heavy rains increase parasites and reduce nutritional value of vegetation, further threatening giraffe survival.

SourceUniversity of Zurich·JournalBiodiversity and Conservation·TypeObservational study·DateJun 12, 2023

Seaweed farming may help tackle global food insecurity

Research suggests that seaweed farming could be a game-changer for addressing food insecurity globally. By reducing the need for land, freshwater, and chemical fertilizers, seaweed cultivation can lead to higher incomes for farmers in coastal regions of Africa and Southeast Asia. As demand for nutrient-rich seaweed products grows world...

SourceTufts University·JournalGlobal Food Security·DateJun 8, 2023

Greenhouse gas emissions at ‘an all-time high’ - and it is causing an unprecedented rate of global warming, say scientists

Human-induced warming has increased at an 'unprecedented rate' since the last major assessment, with greenhouse gas emissions reaching a record level. The remaining carbon budget has halved over three years, highlighting the urgent need for policymakers and climate experts to access up-to-date scientific evidence.

SourceUniversity of Leeds·JournalEarth System Science Data·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJun 8, 2023

Lessons from ‘The Blob’ will help us manage fisheries during future marine heatwaves

A new study examines the impact of marine heatwaves on fisheries and ecosystems, providing insights for managing these disruptions. The research highlights both winners and losers in the face of warming waters, emphasizing the need for adaptable management strategies to mitigate losses and capitalize on unexpected gains.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·JournalFish and Fisheries·DateJun 5, 2023
Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only)

Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only) delivers reliable low-light performance and rugged build for astrophotography, lab documentation, and field expeditions.

Quantifying mangroves’ value as a climate solution and economic engine

A new Stanford-led study quantifies the value of Belize's coastal mangrove forests in terms of carbon storage, tourism, and fisheries benefits. The findings suggest that relatively small amounts of mangrove restoration can have big economic benefits, while also providing protection against coastal storms and other risks.

SourceStanford University·JournalNature Ecology & Evolution·DateJun 1, 2023

Salton Sea environment detrimental to respiratory health of local children

A UC Riverside-led study reveals the Salton Sea environment is toxic, causing sulfuric smells, dust storms, chemicals, and fires that contribute to chronic health conditions like asthma and respiratory illnesses. The study's findings have important public health implications for vulnerable child populations.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalInternational Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health·TypeSurvey·DateJun 1, 2023

Four ways to advance equity and justice goals in climate action planning

A new study from the University of Waterloo highlights four strategies to enhance equity and justice in climate action planning: modifying strategies, designing collaborative spaces, addressing gaps between words and actions, and considering underlying social processes. By prioritizing vulnerable populations and local actors, urban gov...

SourceUniversity of Waterloo·JournalPlanning Theory & Practice·DateMay 31, 2023

Arctic ground squirrels changing hibernation patterns

Researchers found that female arctic ground squirrels are emerging from hibernation earlier every year due to warmer temperatures, potentially leading to healthier litters and higher survival rates. This change is accompanied by differences in male hibernation patterns, which may have negative consequences for the food web.

SourceColorado State University·JournalScience·TypeObservational study·DateMay 25, 2023
GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter

GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter logs beta, gamma, and X-ray levels for environmental monitoring, training labs, and safety demonstrations.

Establishing a wildflower meadow at King’s College, Cambridge bolstered biodiversity and reduced greenhouse gas emissions, study finds.

A new study found that establishing a wildflower meadow in the historic grounds of King's College, Cambridge increased species richness and abundance by three times compared to adjacent lawn. The meadow also reduced greenhouse gas emissions by an estimated 1.36 tonnes CO2-e per hectare per year.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalEcological Solutions and Evidence·TypeSurvey·DateMay 23, 2023

Ozone treaty is delaying first ice-free Arctic summer

New research shows that the Montreal Protocol is delaying the first ice-free Arctic summer by up to 15 years. The treaty's regulation of ozone-depleting substances has slowed global warming and preserved the ozone layer.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 22, 2023
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter is a trusted meter for precise measurements during instrument integration, repairs, and field diagnostics.

How a drought affects trees depends on what’s been holding them back

Research found that drought can increase tree growth in cold, harsh environments due to its impact on energy-limited systems. The study's results provide insights into how different tree species and ecosystems will respond to climate change, particularly in water-limited regions.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·JournalGlobal Change Biology·DateMay 22, 2023

Half of world's largest lakes losing water

A new assessment by University of Colorado at Boulder researchers reveals that over 50% of the world's largest lakes are losing water. The study found that climate change and unsustainable human consumption are major contributors to this decline, with many lakes in dry and wet regions experiencing significant losses.

SourceUniversity of Colorado at Boulder·JournalScience·TypeImaging analysis·DateMay 18, 2023

In years after El Niño, global economy loses trillions

A recent study by Dartmouth researchers finds that global economic losses from El Niño can persist for several years after the event, with a significant impact on the world's poorest nations. The study projects total losses of $84 trillion for the 21st century, highlighting the need for climate change mitigation and adaptation strategies.

SourceDartmouth College·JournalScience·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMay 18, 2023
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope combines portable Schmidt-Cassegrain optics with GoTo pointing for outreach nights and field campaigns.

Climate change to push species over abrupt tipping points

A new study predicts that climate change will expose species to potentially dangerous temperatures, leading to an abrupt loss of habitat. The research found that up to 30% of species will be at risk of experiencing unfamiliarly hot temperatures across at least 30% of their geographic range in a single decade.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalNature Ecology & Evolution·DateMay 18, 2023

‘Nature is messy': Pioneers in landscape transcriptomics study genes in the wild

A team of Penn State researchers is using a new field called landscape transcriptomics to study how genes respond to environmental changes. By analyzing RNA molecules from across the landscape, they aim to understand how organisms adapt to climate change and develop strategies for conservation and management.

SourcePenn State·JournalMolecular Ecology Resources·TypeLiterature review·DateMay 12, 2023
Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount

Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount provides precise tracking capacity for deep-sky imaging rigs during long astrophotography sessions.

Nature is changing as land abandonment increases

As rural populations decline, abandoned lands hold promise for rewilding and biodiversity recovery. However, land abandonment can also have negative impacts on local ecosystems and human culture. The authors highlight the need to balance economic needs with restoration and conservation goals.

SourceInternational Institute for Applied Systems Analysis·JournalScience·DateMay 11, 2023

Nature favors creatures in largest and smallest sizes

A study by McGill University and University of British Columbia found that the planet's biomass is concentrated in organisms at either end of the size spectrum. The researchers discovered a universal upper limit for maximum body size across multiple species and environments, with similar sizes reached by trees, fish, and other organisms.

SourceMcGill University·JournalPLOS ONE·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMay 10, 2023

Water warming study shows unexpected impact on fish size

A 24-year study of freshwater fish exposed to warm water pollution found changes in growth rates, death rates, and size. Despite expectations, the study revealed that warmer waters led to larger fish, contradicting general predictions of global warming's effects on natural ecosystems.

SourceeLife·JournaleLife·DateMay 9, 2023
Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C)

Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C) keeps Macs, tablets, and meters powered during extended observing runs and remote surveys.

Study calls for action to explore potential impacts of decommissioned offshore structures

Researchers highlight the need for a coherent international framework for decommissioning offshore structures due to limited evidence on their environmental impact. The study emphasizes the critical need for consensus on future approaches as an estimated 1,800 offshore wind turbines will require decommissioning by 2030.

SourceUniversity of Plymouth·JournalTrends in Ecology & Evolution·TypeLiterature review·DateMay 9, 2023

Palsa mires continue to degrade at a rapid pace

A long-term study at the University of Eastern Finland reveals a significant reduction in palsa area by over 75% from 1959 to 2021. Climate change has only a limited impact on active layer thickness, contradicting expectations.

SourceUniversity of Eastern Finland·JournalThe Cryosphere·DateMay 9, 2023

Atmospheric research provides clear evidence of human-caused climate change signal associated with CO2 increases

Scientists have found a clear human fingerprint on climate change, with specific signals from CO2 increases altering Earth's atmosphere temperature structure. This evidence rebuts claims that recent atmospheric and surface temperature changes are natural.

SourceWoods Hole Oceanographic Institution·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeObservational study·DateMay 8, 2023

Viruses could reshuffle the carbon cycle in a warming world

A study examines how viral infections may alter microbial processes and ecosystem functioning in response to climate change. The research reveals potential gaps in understanding the connections between viruses, warming, and ecosystem functioning.

SourceDOE/US Department of Energy·JournalFEMS Microbiology Ecology·TypeMeta-analysis·DateMay 8, 2023

Vanishing glaciers threaten alpine biodiversity

Researchers warn that climate change will lead to the loss of habitats for invertebrates in the European Alps, with many species forced to seek refuge in colder areas. The study predicts that by the end of the century, most species will have experienced consistent losses of habitat.

SourceUniversity of Leeds·JournalNature Ecology & Evolution·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMay 4, 2023
Meta Quest 3 512GB

Meta Quest 3 512GB enables immersive mission planning, terrain rehearsal, and interactive STEM demos with high-resolution mixed-reality experiences.

New study shows non-optimal temperature is a significant contributor to cardiovascular disease burden globally

A new study published in European Journal of Preventive Cardiology reveals that non-optimal temperatures have a significant impact on global cardiovascular disease burden, contributing to nearly 1.2 million CVD deaths and 22 million disability-adjusted life years (DALYs) annually.

SourceUniversity Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center·JournalEuropean Journal of Preventive Cardiology·DateMay 2, 2023

Progressive climate change: desertification threatens Mediterranean forests

Scientists analyzing fossil pollen and geochemical data reveal that Mediterranean forests are susceptible to transformation into steppes under natural conditions. Rising atmospheric CO2 levels may lead to a significant decrease in precipitation, triggering such a shift in the near future if protection measures are not taken.

SourceHeidelberg University·JournalNature Communications·DateMay 2, 2023

50-year study offers insight into effects of climate on bird reproduction

A 50-year global meta-analysis of bird reproductive output found that a warming climate negatively affects larger and migratory bird species. The study, published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, reveals that smaller, sedentary species are less affected by climate change.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeMeta-analysis·DateMay 1, 2023

Twilight zone at risk from climate change

Climate change could cause a 20-40% reduction in twilight zone life by the end of the century. The study predicts that life in the twilight zone could be severely depleted within 150 years, with no recovery for thousands of years.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 27, 2023