9 new species for disappearing handfish family
Nine new species of handfish have been described by CSIRO, bringing the total to 14 known species. The discovery deepens concerns about declining populations and environmental vulnerability.
Climate Change Effects
Articles tagged with Climate Change Effects
Disease control, not climate change, key to future of malaria
A recent study suggests that current malaria interventions could have a more dramatic positive effect on reducing the spread of malaria than negative effects caused by climate change. The research found that disease control measures such as insecticide-treated bed nets and modern antimalarial drugs can potentially counteract the effect...
New study reveals link between 'climate footprints' and mass mammal
A new global approach reveals that climate change played a major role in causing mass extinction of mammals in the late quaternary era. The study shows that continents with larger 'climate footprints' experienced more extinctions, supporting the idea that past climate changes contributed to global extinctions.
UGA researchers awarded $2.4 million to study Amazon River to ocean continuum
The project will investigate the lower reach of the river and its offshore plume, measuring elements such as carbon, nutrients, and microorganisms. The goal is to develop a carbon cycle model that links the upriver microbial system with the offshore plume.
Soil microbes produce less atmospheric carbon dioxide than expected
A study published in Nature Geoscience found that soil microbes release decreasing amounts of climate-warming greenhouse gases as they overheat and grow more slowly
Topography of mountains could complicate rates of global warming
A new study finds that complex mountainous terrain can significantly change the effects of global warming over small distances. Researchers used Oregon's H.J. Andrews Experimental Forest data to predict variations in temperature caused by steep hills and valleys.
'10 most wanted' plants inspected for clues to climate change
Volunteers in Project BudBurst are tracking plant blooms across the US, providing a baseline for studying climate change impacts. Key findings include some plants blooming earlier than usual, which could be related to rising temperatures.
SourceNational Center for Atmospheric Research/University Corporation for Atmospheric Research·DateApr 19, 2010
Scientists link climate change and Atlantic croaker fishery
A new model forecasts Atlantic croaker population increases and shifts due to climate change, with potential for higher yields. The study demonstrates the importance of considering environmental factors in fisheries management.
HSBC Climate Partnership yields initial research findings
The HSBC Climate Partnership has made significant progress in understanding the effects of climate change on forest ecosystems and carbon storage. Researchers have found rapid increases in tree growth, proposed a novel biodiversity theory, and examined the impact of changing climate on white-tailed deer and mosquitoes.
AIBS names emerging public policy leaders
The American Institute of Biological Sciences (AIBS) has selected Meredith Niles, Ryan Richards, and Leslie Smith to receive the 2010 AIBS Emerging Public Policy Leadership Award. The awardees will meet with their Congressional delegations and attend a briefing on the federal budget for scientific research.
How can accidental captures of loggerhead turtles be reduced?
Researchers propose limiting longline fishing in summer months and areas over 35 nautical miles from land to drastically reduce accidental loggerhead turtle captures. Using fish as bait may also help, but could affect swordfish catches.
SourceSpanish Foundation for Science and Technology·JournalJournal of Applied Ichthyology·DateFeb 26, 2010
Tackling the challenges of survival in a changing world
Leading researchers discuss challenges of identifying and protecting vulnerable species amidst unprecedented climate change, covering topics such as vegetation distributions, bird, insect, and marine populations. The collection provides insights into the responses of corals, amphibians, and other organisms to environmental changes.
Dust from distant lands may affect climate and health in the Americas and Europe
Recent research suggests that dust storms in the Arctic, possibly caused by receding glaciers, may be depositing soil in northern Europe and North America. This phenomenon could impact local climates and potentially affect human health due to the presence of small particles in the air.
SourceUniversity of Miami Rosenstiel School of Marine, Atmospheric, and Earth Science·DateFeb 19, 2010
The evidence behind the health effects of hot weather
A Review of hot weather health effects highlights the need for more awareness on how certain drugs are affected by heat. The authors also question commonly given advice, such as avoiding alcohol consumption, and emphasize the importance of gradual acclimatisation for elderly individuals to build up their physiological defences.
Alternative futures of a warming world
Researchers develop new climate modeling process that considers greenhouse gas emissions, projections of the Earth's climate, impacts of climate change, and human decision-making. The approach will influence the next international scientific assessment and provide tools for policymakers to deal with a shifting climate.
New UC Davis study: Climate 'tipping points' may arrive without warning, says top forecaster
A new UC Davis study finds that sudden shifts in Earth's natural systems can occur with no warning, making it difficult to prevent or prepare for major changes. The study suggests that some effects of climate change on ecosystems may only be seen once the effects are dramatic, making return to a desirable state nearly impossible.
Plantations can provide the same ecosystem services as natural forests
Researchers argue that biologically diverse plantations can alleviate social, economic and ecological pressures on natural forests. These plantations can sequester carbon, mitigate climate change and restore ecological services. Well-planned plantations can help preserve high diversity old-growth forests.
DOE awards over a billion supercomputing hours to address scientific challenges
The US Department of Energy has awarded 1.6 billion supercomputing hours to 69 cutting-edge research projects through the INCITE program. These projects focus on accelerating discoveries in areas like climate change, alternative energy, life sciences, and materials science.
Stimulus grant to support research on climate and infectious disease
A nearly $1.9 million grant from the National Science Foundation will support research on the potential effects of climate change on infectious diseases such as malaria and dengue fever, which annually infect 500 million people worldwide. The project aims to quantify how environmental temperature influences disease transmission and risk.
Heat and moisture from Himalayas could be a key cause of the South Asian monsoon
Climate scientists suggest that Himalayan heat and moisture are crucial for the South Asian monsoon. The research implies that changes in land use over the Indian subcontinent could influence albedo and moisture levels.
Shipworm threatens archaeological treasures
Researchers at the University of Gothenburg suspect climate change is behind the shipworm's emergence in the Baltic Sea, posing a threat to 100,000 well-preserved shipwrecks. The group aims to develop methods to protect these treasures, including covering them with geotextile and bottom sediment.
Coral can recover from climate change damage
A University of Exeter study shows coral reefs located in marine reserves can recover from the devastating effects of global warming. The research found that reducing fishing levels is a viable way to protect delicate aquatic ecosystems.
Disproportionate effects of global warming and pollution on disadvantaged communities
A special issue on climate justice explores the global implications of climate change on human health and the environment in disadvantaged communities. The collection of articles examines the disproportionate effects of energy production, environmental consequences, and healthcare utilization in low-income populations.
Study reveals how Arctic food webs affect mercury in polar bears
A new study led by the University of Michigan reveals that polar bears get their nutrition from two main food webs: phytoplankton-based and ice algae-based. The research found that those who primarily eat phytoplankton have higher mercury concentrations, highlighting the importance of understanding Arctic ecosystems.
Major impacts of climate change expected on mental health
Climate change is projected to exacerbate existing mental illness and increase overall burden of mental disorder worldwide. This is due to factors such as natural disasters, heat-related deaths, and mass migration, which disproportionately affect vulnerable populations.
Indigenous delegates to UN talks in Copenhagen debut video evidence, accounts of climate change
A delegation of indigenous teens, women, elders and shamens present video evidence of drought, deforestation and unseasonal downpours in Africa, Asia and the Americas. They highlight the unintended consequences of climate change mitigation efforts on local livelihoods.
Past regional cold and warm periods linked to natural climate drivers
Researchers reconstructed spatial patterns of ocean and land surface temperature over the past 1500 years using diverse climate proxies. They found dynamic connections between natural phenomena like El Niño and regional temperature changes.
Doctors must discuss climate change and health with patients
The medical profession is urged to accelerate its role in the climate change debate. A low carbon development fund of at least $150 billion is proposed to support global health. The authors emphasize the need for clear communication with patients, politicians, and the public about the risks of inaction.
Other short-lived greenhouse pollutants need to be controlled too
New research highlights the importance of controlling short-lived greenhouse pollutants like sulphates, methane, and black carbon to reduce global warming and improve health. The study finds that sulphates can have negative health effects while ozone pollution has a significant impact on cardiovascular mortality.
Aquatic creatures mix ocean water
Researchers estimate that swimming animals generate extensive 'biogenic' mixing in the ocean, which may impact climate models. The effect is primarily due to animal displacement, not turbulence, and affects even deep-sea creatures.
Green is cool, but US land changes generally are not
A new study by researchers at the University of Maryland and Purdue University found that most land-use changes contribute to warming, except for conversion to agricultural use, which results in relative cooling. The study used a novel analytical approach called OMR and confirmed its robustness.
World undernutrition epidemic -- no more excuses, time for food
The Lancet Editorial highlights the global undernutrition crisis, affecting over 1 billion people, particularly in Asia and Africa. The world currently produces enough food to feed everyone, yet inequitable distribution and lack of national safety nets hinder access to nutritious food.
US coal peak production: Point and counterpoint
Experts Dr. David B. Rutledge and Robert C. Milici present opposing views on US coal peak production, with Rutledge estimating ultimate production at 665 billion metric tons and predicting mitigation of CO2 emissions from climate change. Milici's model predicts a range of 2062-2105 for peak production, citing uncertainty in reserve est...
Television has less effect on education about climate change than other forms of media
A study by George Mason University found that watching TV does not significantly improve viewers' knowledge about climate change. In contrast, reading newspapers and using the web are linked to increased concern and education about global warming.
MSU-led study to examine effect of climate change on global industries
Researchers will develop a system for conducting climate-impact assessments for international market systems, focusing on the tart-cherry industry. The study aims to provide detailed information for industry stakeholders to plan for future investments.
Tropical regions to be hardest hit by fisheries shifts caused by climate change: UBC research
A UBC-led study finds that climate change will lead to major shifts in ocean fisheries productivity, affecting global food supply. Tropical regions are expected to see significant declines in catch potential, with Indonesia, US, Chile, and China among the hardest hit.
There's still time to cut the risk of climate catastrophe, MIT study shows
A new analysis by MIT researchers reveals that even moderate carbon-reduction policies can substantially lower the risk of future climate change. To avoid a 2 degree Celsius temperature increase, global emissions reductions are required now to provide a good chance of stabilizing the climate.
Copenhagen climate change conference is vital for our future as a species
The authors emphasize the need for radical reductions in CO2 emissions to prevent catastrophic climate change, highlighting its impact on global health and human well-being. They advocate for a low-carbon diet, clean power, and sustainable agriculture to achieve a healthier and more equal society.
University of Toronto study shows disparity of effect of climate change on UV radiation
A University of Toronto study reveals climate change will reduce UV radiation in northern high latitude regions such as Siberia, Scandinavia and northern Canada, while increasing it in other areas like the tropics and Antarctica.
The change in Arctic nature foreshadows the global environment of the future
The Arctic ecosystem is experiencing rapid changes due to global warming, impacting natural resources, food production, and climate temperature. Many original species are being displaced by migrants from southern areas, leading to concerns about the long-term survival of vulnerable species such as Arctic foxes and ivory gulls.
Evolution coup: Study reveals how plants protect their genes
Plant scientists at the University of Montreal have discovered a key mechanism that enables plants to prevent dangerous gene alterations, ensuring their survival. This finding has implications for understanding gene repair mechanisms in humans and preventing devastating diseases.
SourceUniversity of Montreal·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 10, 2009
New robot travels across the seafloor to monitor the impact of climate change on deep-sea ecosystems
The Benthic Rover, a robotic explorer, is revolutionizing our understanding of life on the deep seafloor. By measuring oxygen consumption and studying sediment communities, scientists can better comprehend how organisms find food in low-nutrient environments.
The Arctic offers more evidence of human influences on climate change
A new study reconstructs Arctic summer temperatures over 1,600 years, showing that recent warming is more anomalous than previously documented. The study agrees with climate models and indicates that the Arctic's sensitivity to climate change will continue into the next century.
The mysterious glaciers that grew when Asia heated up
A team of researchers found that glaciers in the region advanced due to cooler temperatures created by increased cloud cover and reduced evaporation. The study provides valuable insights into how glaciers respond to climate change, enabling better forecasting of water supply changes in the coming decades.
Global warming threatens tropical species, the ecosystem and its by-products
Tropical lizards detect effects of global warming in climate change research, highlighting threat to species and ecosystems, and human health. The loss of predators due to global warming disrupts natural biodiversity, leading to irreversible long-term consequences.
US crop yields could wilt in heat
A study predicts that US crop yields could decrease by 30-46% over the next century under slow global warming scenarios and by 63-82% under rapid scenarios. Crop yields are most vulnerable to temperatures above 29-32 degrees Celsius, depending on the crop.
SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 24, 2009
Comments with the Lancet South Africa series
The Lancet South Africa series proposes three strategies to address public sector workforce needs, affordable national health insurance, and competent leadership. The authors also discuss the decline in clinical research activity and capacity, as well as health inequities in South Africa, highlighting the need for jobs and cooperation ...
Study of 16 developing countries shows climate change could deepen poverty
A new study found that climate change could exacerbate poverty in developing countries, with urban workers facing the greatest vulnerability. The study used data from 16 countries to analyze the impact of extreme weather events on food prices and agricultural productivity.
Increased climate volatility expected to worsen poverty vulnerability in developing countries
A new study predicts that climate volatility will deepen poverty vulnerability in developing countries, particularly among the urban poor. The research, published in Environmental Research Letters, uses a new methodology to understand and predict the effects of climate change on food prices and wages in vulnerable countries.
Psychological factors help explain slow reaction to global warming, says APA task force
The APA task force identified numerous psychological barriers to climate change action, including lack of urgency and behavioral feedback. To overcome these barriers, the task force recommends using financial incentives, environmental regulations, and energy-efficient technology to spur people into action.
NCAR teams with Inter-American Development Bank to help Latin America prepare for climate change
The NCAR-IDB partnership aims to assess climate risks and develop response plans in Latin America and the Caribbean. Trained scientists will predict climate change impacts and help governments develop strategies to protect society.
SourceNational Center for Atmospheric Research/University Corporation for Atmospheric Research·DateJun 25, 2009
City pupils use GPS to map heathland
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.
Rising acidity levels could trigger shellfish revenue declines, job losses
A new study by Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution researchers predicts a 10-25% decline in US mollusk sales, worth $75-$187 million annually, and $1.4 billion by 2060. This decline could lead to economic hardships for fishing communities.
New report outlines current, future impacts of climate change
The new report emphasizes the urgent need for climate action, citing the Southwest as a region particularly susceptible to the effects of global warming. Rising temperatures and water scarcity are projected to exacerbate issues like wildfires, invasive species, and flooding, threatening agriculture, recreation, and urban areas.
UF study finds that ancient mammals shifted diets as climate changed
Researchers analyzed fossil teeth from two sites in Florida representing different climates and found dramatic changes in mammalian diets during interglacial periods. The study suggests that climate-driven environmental changes can lead to shifts in animal groups' dietary niches, complicating future modeling of mammal distributions.
A global responsibility to help vulnerable communities adapt
The Inuit community faces significant threats from climate change, including rising sea levels and permafrost thaw. A new study calls for urgent support to help these communities adapt, with a proposed 'vulnerable people's adaptation fund' that requires global state actors' involvement.
Lesson from the past for surviving climate change
A new study examines how past Caribbean communities coped with rising sea levels, crop failures, and extreme weather. Researchers found that people adapted by building houses on stilts, diversifying food production, and relocating to cave complexes during hurricanes.
Summer haze cools southeastern US
Researchers discovered that sweltering summers in the southeastern US can lead to a cooling haze due to the mixing of manmade pollutants with natural compounds from forests and vegetation. This effect was found to be significant enough to outpace carbon dioxide emissions' warming effects by 2-to-1.
SourceUniversity of California - Berkeley·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 18, 2009
Climate change is the biggest global health threat of the 21st century
The Lancet report warns that climate change will exacerbate traditional diseases like malaria and dengue fever, as well as heat-related mortality. The authors propose three action points: emphasizing the health threat, focusing on health systems, and developing win-win solutions for mitigation and adaptation.
Aerosol: A key piece of the climate change puzzle
A new project aims to design advanced global models of aerosols, addressing uncertainty in climate change predictions. The study will quantify the levels of uncertainty of each process leading to aerosol production.