Researchers from BSC and CSIC have developed an artificial protein capable of degrading PET micro- and nanoplastics with efficiency between 5 and 10 times higher than current PETases. The protein can be used as filters to purify or recycle plastics, offering a potential solution to environmental pollution.
SourceBarcelona Supercomputing Center·JournalNature Catalysis·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateOct 23, 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.
Researchers at São Paulo State University found that Cerrado plant species employ two strategies to protect themselves from fire: producing thick bark and hiding organs beneath the ground. This allows them to resprout quickly after a fire event.
SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalFlora·DateOct 20, 2023
Uncontrolled wildfires are threatening environmental progress in Brazilian Amazonia, a critical carbon sink. Deforestation rates have fallen, but fire counts remain high, driven by hotter and drier climate conditions.
SourceUniversity of East Anglia·JournalNature Ecology & Evolution·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateOct 16, 2023
Research reveals Eurasian otters in Hong Kong were once more widespread and common, but have declined drastically since the 1930s due to lowland wetlands destruction. The species' critical habitat, Deep Bay wetlands, is under threat from government-led mega development plans.
SourceCambridge University Press·JournalOryx·DateOct 15, 2023
Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro)
Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro) powers local ML workloads, large datasets, and multi-display analysis for field and lab teams.
Ecologists say that carbon-capture tree plantations have a negative impact on tropical biodiversity and ecosystem services, despite their potential to offset climate change. In contrast, intact ecosystems like forests, grasslands, and savannahs store large quantities of carbon below ground and provide multiple ecosystem services.
SourceCell Press·JournalTrends in Ecology & Evolution·TypeLiterature review·DateOct 3, 2023
A Lancaster University-led study found that corporate-led ecosystem restoration projects often fail to report ecological outcomes, invest sufficient funds, or clearly state their aims. The research highlights the need for improved transparency and consistent reporting to ensure the effectiveness of these initiatives.
SourceLancaster University·JournalScience·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateSep 7, 2023
A Dartmouth-led study reveals the devastating impact of gold and mineral mining on tropical rivers worldwide. Mining operations have doubled suspended sediment concentrations at 80% of affected rivers, altering river ecosystems and threatening human health.
SourceDartmouth College·JournalNature·TypeObservational study·DateAug 23, 2023
Apple iPhone 17 Pro
Apple iPhone 17 Pro delivers top performance and advanced cameras for field documentation, data collection, and secure research communications.
Researchers found that lack of trust and information hindered conservation efforts, while agronomists played a crucial role. To save remnant native habitats, farmers must be empowered as leaders, supported by government agencies.
SourceUniversity of South Australia·JournalAgriculture and Human Values·TypeCase study·DateJul 18, 2023
A recent study by the University of Bologna reveals that the EU is far from meeting its goal of protecting 10% of its land area for biodiversity. The study found that many countries have inadequate protection in place, with some having very few protected areas and others failing to implement integral protection in national parks. To ac...
SourceUniversità di Bologna·JournalBiodiversity and Conservation·DateJun 30, 2023
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
Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars
Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars deliver bright, sharp views for wildlife surveys, eclipse chases, and quick star-field scans at dark sites.
Scientists have found that 10 years of underwater seaweed forest restoration has helped a damaged ecosystem regrow to richness and strength comparable to undisturbed forests. The restored locality showed greater structural complexity, species with longer lifespans, and increased biodiversity, indicating long-term recovery.
SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Marine Science·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 2, 2023
Current measures to protect grasslands in the Qinghai-Tibetan Plateau are damaging the ecosystem and should be stopped. Small burrowing mammals, like the plateau pika and zokor, play crucial ecological roles in maintaining ecosystem health and biodiversity.
SourceXi'an Jiaotong-Liverpool University·JournalJournal of Animal Ecology·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateMay 22, 2023
A study by University of Utah researchers found that birds eat fewer invertebrates in coffee plantations than in forests, threatening their survival. The disturbance of ecosystems significantly impacts dietary options, leading to reduced survival and population declines.
SourceUniversity of Utah·JournalFrontiers in Ecology and the Environment·TypeObservational study·DateMar 20, 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.
The Stanford-led study found that the area of wetland ecosystems has declined 21-35% since 1700 due to human intervention, with at least 1.3 million square miles lost globally. This contradicts previous estimates and suggests a need for revised conservation strategies.
SourceStanford University·JournalNature·DateFeb 8, 2023
A group of international scientists warn that nuclear radiation would have catastrophic consequences on ecosystems, including widespread hunger, toxic contamination, and habitat destruction. The authors urge policymakers to take action to mitigate these risks.
SourceColorado State University·JournalFrontiers in Ecology and Evolution·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateFeb 6, 2023
A new species of aquatic insect, Potamophylax humoinsapiens, has been discovered in the Sharr Mountains of Kosovo. The species was named to raise awareness about human activities that have degraded habitats and led to extinction. Researchers hope this naming convention will make insects 'talk' to humanity's collective consciousness.
SourcePensoft Publishers·JournalBiodiversity Data Journal·DateJan 16, 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.
A new study by researchers at the University of Oxford found that logged rainforests have amplified and diverse ecosystem energetics, supporting similar or greater densities of bird and mammal species. The study challenges the labelling of logged forests as 'degraded' when they are ecologically vibrant.
SourceUniversity of Oxford·JournalNature·TypeObservational study·DateDec 14, 2022
Researchers analyzed over 4,500 documents to understand fungal dispersal across spatial scales. They identified four scales of movement, from microscopic to landscape, and found that climate change affects where fungi reside. More data is needed to understand the biodiversity of fungi and their movement in ecosystems.
SourceDartmouth College·JournalAnnual Review of Ecology Evolution and Systematics·TypeLiterature review·DateDec 5, 2022
Researchers have developed a chemical-biological method to upcycle polyethylene waste into valuable and complex compounds of pharmacological interest. Genetically engineered fungi convert carboxylic diacids derived from PE waste into natural products, including asperbenzaldehyde, citreoviridin, and mutilin.
SourceWiley·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 28, 2022
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.
Almost one quarter of Sweden's last unprotected old-growth forest was logged between 2003 and 2019. Rare ecosystems with rich biodiversity are being lost at a rate of 1.4% per year, posing significant threats to biodiversity and planetary stability.
SourceLund University·JournalEarth s Future·DateNov 9, 2022
A new study found that offshore mussel farms can increase species abundance, including Atlantic horse mackerel and European lobster, on degraded seabed habitats. The research suggests that this practice could have wider environmental benefits, supporting the national and international Blue Growth agenda.
SourceUniversity of Plymouth·JournalAquaculture Fish and Fisheries·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 24, 2022
Pharmaceutical contamination poses significant risks to ecosystems due to the widespread use of medicines in humans and animals. Researchers emphasize the need for greener drug design, improved wastewater management, and responsible use of drugs.
SourceUniversity of the Basque Country·JournalScience·DateOct 11, 2022
A NASA initiative studies wildfire-induced air pollution by measuring atmospheric CO and O3 levels using airborne observations. The study found that CO levels increased in the plume as it was transported away from the fire site, while plume age was associated with distance in both vertical and horizontal directions.
SourceSPIE--International Society for Optics and Photonics·JournalJournal of Applied Remote Sensing·DateSep 7, 2022
New research from the University of East Anglia finds that hydropower developments lead to flooding forests, driving biodiversity loss and ecosystem disruptions. The study reveals widespread species extinction, especially among large-bodied species, highlighting the need for sustainable energy security and biodiversity conservation.
SourceUniversity of East Anglia·JournalScience Advances·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateAug 26, 2022
DJI Air 3 (RC-N2)
DJI Air 3 (RC-N2) captures 4K mapping passes and environmental surveys with dual cameras, long flight time, and omnidirectional obstacle sensing.
A new study analyzing 72 lakes in four large Neotropical wetlands of Brazil reveals that human impacts on biodiversity compromise wetland multifunctionality. Strong associations between aquatic organism diversity and wetland functioning were found, highlighting the crucial role of species richness in driving ecosystem health.
SourceQueen Mary University of London·JournalNature Ecology & Evolution·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateAug 4, 2022
A new study challenges conservation paradigms, suggesting re-introduced wolves and predators do not significantly impact deer populations or livestock, nor restore degraded ecosystems. Instead, they coexist with humans and other species in a delicate balance.
SourceCornell University·JournalFrontiers in Conservation Science·DateJul 5, 2022
A major Amazon study reveals ecological threats, including deforestation, but also opportunities for sustainability through actions like halting deforestation and protecting secondary forests. Researchers found biodiversity and carbon storage gains from allowing mature secondary forests to regrow.
SourceLancaster University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeObservational study·DateJun 27, 2022
Genomics offers vital support for reversing ecosystem decline by improving seed sourcing practices under climate change and screening for threatened species. The technology also enables the detection of invasive weeds and animals, as well as tracking of soil microbes that support life on earth.
SourceFlinders University·JournalPhilosophical Transactions of the Royal Society B Biological Sciences·TypeSystematic review·DateJun 26, 2022
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.
A new project led by INRS will assess how living organisms respond to reduced pesticide use, focusing on soil and water health. The study aims to provide a clear understanding of the benefits and limitations of reducing pesticide use in sustainable farming.
SourceInstitut national de la recherche scientifique - INRS·DateMay 6, 2022
The UN Convention to Combat Desertification's Global Land Outlook 2 report warns that up to 40% of the planet's land is degraded, threatening half of humanity and roughly 1/2 of world GDP. The report offers hundreds of practical ways to restore land and ecosystem health.
SourceUnited Nations Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD)·TypeLiterature review·DateApr 27, 2022
Human activity on Hainan Island is causing changes in the body shapes and diets of tropical birds, resulting in biotic homogenisation. Despite efforts to protect biodiversity, the island's unique ecosystem is being affected by large-scale economic and land-use changes.
SourceXi'an Jiaotong-Liverpool University·JournalConservation Biology·TypeObservational study·DateApr 14, 2022
A team of researchers from Nanyang Technological University and National Parks Board in Singapore has discovered that certain tropical plant species can absorb and remove toxic heavy metals and metalloids from contaminated soil. The study identified 12 plant species effective for phytoremediation, including Cow Grass, Brake Fern, and I...
SourceNanyang Technological University·JournalEnvironmental Pollution·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 12, 2022
High-income nations, driven by US and EU, exceed sustainable resource use thresholds by 74% globally. China ranks second in global excess material use, while low- and middle-income countries account for only 8%. Researchers call for transformative post-growth approaches to mitigate ecological breakdown.
SourceUniversitat Autonoma de Barcelona·JournalThe Lancet Planetary Health·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateApr 8, 2022
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.
Researchers at KAUST used drones to track dye plumes in coastal waters, providing insights into the dispersion of materials in the water column and along the coast. The study demonstrated the potential of unmanned aerial vehicles for monitoring time-sensitive events and capturing rapidly developing processes.
SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalScientific Reports·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 17, 2022
Researchers at Tokyo Metropolitan University developed a simple synthesis method for iron-based single-atom catalysts that activate peroxymonosulfate to break down difficult-to-degrade pollutants. The team discovered two distinct chemical pathways involving 'high-spin' state iron sites, which interact with peroxymonosulfate to create r...
SourceTokyo Metropolitan University·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·DateMar 5, 2022
The report projects a global increase in extreme fires by up to 50% by the end of the century, with a call for governments to shift their investments from reaction to prevention and preparedness. The authors recommend a 'Fire Ready Formula' with two-thirds of spending devoted to planning, prevention, and recovery.
Researchers found massive sponge gardens on extinct underwater volcanoes, dominated by sponges that feed on microbial symbionts and organic matter. The unique ecosystem supports thousands of years of life, with sponges acting as ecosystem engineers to create their own food trap.
SourceMax Planck Institute for Marine Microbiology·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 8, 2022
Researchers found animal-dispersed plant species' ability to adapt to climate change reduced by 60% due to bird and mammal losses. Global seed dispersal mapping revealed severe declines in temperate regions, with tropical areas at high risk if endangered species go extinct.
SourceRice University·JournalScience·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJan 13, 2022
Rigol DP832 Triple-Output Bench Power Supply
Rigol DP832 Triple-Output Bench Power Supply powers sensors, microcontrollers, and test circuits with programmable rails and stable outputs.
A study by FAU Harbor Branch reveals that even properly functioning septic systems contribute to nitrogen pollution in the Indian River Lagoon. Groundwater samples showed higher dissolved nutrient concentrations than surface waters, indicating contaminated groundwater as a major source of nutrient loading.
SourceFlorida Atlantic University·JournalMarine Pollution Bulletin·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 2, 2021
Researchers used mathematical models to reconstruct evolutionary history of photosymbiosis in Scleractinia, identifying groups where association is stable and others that may be more flexible. The study found that certain lineages are more likely to retain the reef-building trait in a changing climate.
SourceUniversity of Guam·JournalScience Advances·DateNov 30, 2021
The article highlights the dangers of biological contamination from space travel, citing examples of bacteria resistant to ionizing radiation and disinfectants found in NASA 'clean rooms'. Researchers propose the use of invasion science to address this threat, leveraging insights on epidemiology, rapid evolution, and early detection.
SourceAmerican Institute of Biological Sciences·JournalBioScience·TypeLiterature review·DateNov 17, 2021
A study by the University of Bonn shows that building Africa's 'Green Wall' is economically worthwhile due to its long-term provisioning services, such as food and water production. However, the project faces challenges in regions plagued by conflicts, which limit its potential.
SourceUniversity of Bonn·JournalNature Sustainability·DateNov 15, 2021
A global meta-analysis supports the U.N.'s goal of restoring habitats, finding mangrove restoration performs better than unvegetated mud, sand flats or abandoned aquaculture ponds. Restored mangroves yield significant ecological benefits and economic value, making them an ecologically and economically sound choice.
SourceUniversity of Tokyo·JournalNature Communications·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateNov 9, 2021
Meta Quest 3 512GB
Meta Quest 3 512GB enables immersive mission planning, terrain rehearsal, and interactive STEM demos with high-resolution mixed-reality experiences.
Scientists call for scientifically-informed reforms to manage overabundant kangaroo populations, addressing animal welfare, conservation and environmental concerns. The special edition of the journal features research papers on sustainable monitoring and management practices to reduce harm to wildlife species.
SourceUniversity of Adelaide·JournalEcological Management & Restoration·DateNov 3, 2021
A new study reveals that deforestation and population growth have greatly increased landslide risk in the Kivu Rift, leading to thousands of fatalities each year. The research, conducted over six decades, shows that smallholder agriculture and mining activities also contribute to landslides.
SourceKU Leuven·JournalNature Sustainability·DateAug 19, 2021
Researchers found that producing animal-sourced foods consumes over 80% of the Earth's agricultural acreage, leading to widespread deforestation and climate change. Shifting to land-friendly diets could regrow native vegetation capable of absorbing CO2, reducing atmospheric carbon dioxide levels.
SourceOregon State University·JournalNature Sustainability·DateSep 10, 2020
Research by University of Alberta biologists reveals that common sunscreen ingredients, such as avobenzone and oxybenzone, are detrimental to freshwater-dwelling crustaceans like the water flea Daphnia magna. Long-term exposure can be lethal, even at short distances from popular beach areas.
SourceUniversity of Alberta·JournalThe Science of The Total Environment·DateSep 2, 2020
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope combines portable Schmidt-Cassegrain optics with GoTo pointing for outreach nights and field campaigns.
A study by the UPV/EHU-University of the Basque Country found that microplastics cause mortality in detritivores and reduce tadpole growth. Microplastics also attach to periphyton, altering ecosystem productivity, and are ingested by organisms, highlighting their potential impact on freshwater ecosystems.
SourceUniversity of the Basque Country·JournalEnvironmental Pollution·DateMar 10, 2020
Researchers from McGill University found that widespread use of Roundup herbicide can trigger loss of biodiversity in freshwater ecosystems, making them more vulnerable to pollution and climate change. The study discovered that some ecosystems adapt by evolving resistance to the herbicide, but this comes at a cost of plankton diversity.
SourceMcGill University·JournalNature Ecology & Evolution·DateMar 2, 2020
A new study in the Serengeti-Mara ecosystem highlights how human activity near protected areas affects wildlife and ecosystem function. The results show that human pressure has caused wildlife to migrate to the core of the park, resulting in changes to fire regimes, grazing patterns, and increased vulnerability to droughts.
SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateMar 28, 2019
Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter
Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter measures wind, temperature, and humidity in real time for site assessments, aviation checks, and safety briefings.
The Himalayan gold fungus, valued at $11 billion, is facing extinction due to intensive harvesting and climate change. The fungus's decline may have severe consequences for communities that rely on it for their livelihood.
SourceStanford's School of Earth, Energy & Environmental Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 23, 2018
A new study finds that alpine ecosystems take decades to recover from high levels of nitrogen air pollution, with soil acidification and biodiversity lingering long after emission rates decrease. Researchers used a 12-year field experiment to test the extent to which ecosystems can reverse the effects of nitrogen deposition.
SourceUniversity of Colorado at Boulder·JournalEcological Applications·DateSep 4, 2018
A new study by San Diego State University suggests that lysogeny, where viruses lie dormant within host cells, may be more prevalent under stressful environmental conditions. This finding has significant implications for understanding degraded coral reef ecosystems and preserving them.
SourceSan Diego State University·JournalNature Microbiology·DateMay 22, 2017
A recent study published in Global Change Biology found that diverse fish populations play a crucial role in maintaining ecosystem balance. Larger fish like suckers and catfish store nutrients, contributing to stream biological productivity. Non-native fish also serve as buffers for ecosystems against environmental change.
SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalGlobal Change Biology·DateFeb 21, 2017
A joint North European and North American study highlights the importance of continuous evaluations in ecological restoration projects. The researchers emphasize the need for documenting experiences, conclusions, and lessons learned to improve future projects.
SourceUmea University·JournalEcology and Society·DateApr 8, 2016
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter is a trusted meter for precise measurements during instrument integration, repairs, and field diagnostics.
Researchers found high mercury levels in Amazonian reptiles, with liver concentrations above recommended limits for pregnant women and children. The study suggests using reptiles as indicators of environmental mercury concentrations, shedding light on the region's mercury cycling.
SourceWiley·JournalEnvironmental Toxicology and Chemistry·DateSep 21, 2015
A new Red List system has been developed to identify ecosystems at high risk of degradation. The framework assesses multiple symptoms of risk produced by different processes of ecosystem degradation, enabling it to handle a range of different sources of information.
SourceUniversity of New South Wales·JournalPLOS ONE·DateMay 8, 2013
Brazil faces threats to its environmental leadership from recent developments on deforestation, indigenous lands, and the Forest Code. The declaration urges the government to utilize scientific input and invest in science and education to maintain progress.
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.
Researchers call for a new approach to studying deepwater oil spills, emphasizing the need for understanding oil movement at depth, microbial action, and deep sea ecology. This new direction is crucial for responding to future spills and restoring damaged ecosystems.
SourceAmerican Institute of Biological Sciences·JournalBioScience·DateApr 12, 2012
A study reconstructing 700 years of human-environment interactions in Hawaiian coral reefs found that historical changes in human societies led to degradation or recovery. While some reefs declined due to overexploitation and land-based pollution, others recovered through cultural protection and conservation efforts.
SourceThe Institute for Ocean Conservation Science·JournalPLOS ONE·DateOct 3, 2011