Articles tagged with Environmental Management
A new textbook sheds light on environmentally friendly technologies that can manage and recycle animal manure effectively and sustainably. The book highlights the need for robust interdisciplinary collaboration among professionals in environmental technology, industrial farm animal production, and agriculture to implement these solutions.
The University of Houston will be part of a new Ocean Energy Safety Institute that aims to provide reliable knowledge about critical safety issues. The institute will develop programs of research, technical assistance, and education to support ultra-deep exploration and production.
A University of Illinois survey found that homeowners are willing to pay for storm-water runoff management to reduce flooding in their basements. The study also showed a strong demand for water quality improvements and environmental benefits, with residents willing to pay for low-impact development approaches.
A new study finds that climate change affects poor fishing communities differently based on social and environmental characteristics, requiring tailored management approaches. Communities with diverse livelihoods and strong social networks are more resilient to climate-related pressures.
The article highlights the need for integrated perspectives on institutions, organizations, and technology to implement successful urban water innovations. Engineers must understand the complex mechanisms underlying the human-technology interface to address the growing demands for water and other resources sustainably.
A University of Oklahoma biologist is studying how Daphnia, a small crustacean, adapts to changes in nutrient levels and water quality. The research aims to improve forecasting models of global environmental change and inform effective management of natural resources.
A new study suggests that oyster populations can recover faster with reduced fishing pressure and improved habitats. The research model indicates that halting or reducing fishing could lead to a healthier population restored within 50-500 years.
Researchers found only two technologies showed good evidence of effectiveness in reducing arsenic contamination, but most studies were of poor quality. The reluctance of users to adopt these technologies was also a major issue, with many people believing they would not be affected or finding them too difficult to use.
The study identifies 12 high-risk invasive aquatic plants and animals that pose a significant threat to UK biodiversity. The 'Dirty Dozen' includes species like the killer shrimp and Asian clam, which may spread rapidly in coastal areas with high population density and transport routes.
The U.S. Geological Survey's Biodiversity Information Serving Our Nation (BISON) system has launched, offering a vast repository of nearly 100 million mapped records of living US species. The database provides detailed information on species occurrences, including location, collector data, and environmental context.
A study by New York University researchers found that the Marine Stewardship Council's (MSC) seafood certification process is too lenient and discretionary. The study examined 19 formal objections to MSC certifications and found that many fisheries did not meet the organization's sustainability principles.
Researchers found rapid genetic changes in laboratory soil mites leading to population growth and increased fertility, rescuing populations from extinction. The study demonstrates the intertwined nature of ecology and evolution.
A University of Leeds-led study found significant genetic changes in soil mites after just 15 generations, leading to doubling of age at adulthood and large population size changes. This research demonstrates the interconnectedness of ecology and evolution, with major implications for conservation and fisheries management.
A new study reveals that diversity training programs can create an illusion of corporate fairness, leading people to believe work environments are equitable despite hiring, promotion, or salary inequities. The researchers recommend that companies examine their records to determine the effectiveness of diversity and mentoring programs.
Researchers found that papyrus sedge can absorb toxic matter from abattoir effluent, including nitrogen and phosphorus ions. The study suggests using constructed wetlands with papyrus as a final treatment step to reduce untreated effluent reaching Lake Victoria.
A recent study suggests that well-managed residential development, such as provided by homeowners associations, can support native wildlife and promote species diversity in suburban neighborhoods. HOAs manage multiple properties, covering larger areas and implementing coordinated urban conservation initiatives.
The Colombian Orinoco Basin's protected areas have almost doubled, but ecosystem protection does not increase proportionally, indicating a lack of planning and management capacities. Indigenous Reserves are crucial for conservation, but their status as Protected Area categories is debated.
Protection of marine areas from fishing significantly increases fish density and biomass. Even partial protection yields a 50% increase in biomass for target species like lobsters and scallops. However, the success of marine protection depends on its size and management style.
Researchers from Jena University warn of severe environmental damage in the Antarctic due to human activities such as vehicle tracks and building work. They suggest designating the Fildes Peninsula as an 'Antarctic Specially Managed Area' to reduce conflicting interests and protect the unique flora and fauna.
A University of Washington-led study found that the potential harvest of most fish stocks is largely unrelated to abundance, with only 18% controlled by abundance. Environmental conditions and regime shifts play a significant role in determining productivity, highlighting the need for improved management methods.
Scientists are studying fish ear bones to understand the impacts of climate change on fish growth and distribution. The otoliths, which record annual growth rings, can provide insights into environmental conditions and help guide conservation efforts.
The University of Michigan and 20 other U.S. and Canadian universities are launching the Great Lakes Futures Project to protect and restore the Great Lakes through science-based scenario analysis. The project aims to develop white papers outlining critical drivers of change in the basin over the past 50 years and the next 50 years.
The green stink bug is a significant native species causing cosmetic damage and yield reduction in various crops. The article offers management options, including neonicotinoids, trap cropping, and biological control, to address this pest's impact on integrated pest management systems.
A new UCLA-led study found that employees in green companies, which adopt international environmental standards, are 16 percent more productive than the average. The researchers discovered a positive correlation between the adoption of these practices and increased employee motivation, training, and interpersonal relationships.
Researchers emphasize the need for policy-makers to consider various scales in conservation decisions, including space and time, to effectively protect biodiversity. The SCALES project highlights the importance of adopting scale-sensitive approaches to bridge the gap between scientific research and practical applications.
The failure to meet 2010 biodiversity targets has led to a critical review of existing policies and the need for improved design and implementation. Scientists emphasize the importance of understanding complexity in processes to address scale-related problems in conservation.
The increasing concentration of atmospheric CO2 is impacting marine ecosystems, causing ocean acidification and warming. Unconventional conservation methods are necessary to save marine species from extinction.
Researchers developed a 'Top 20' list of questions to better understand the impacts of chemicals in PPCPs on human and ecological health. The top priorities include identification of PPCPs, understanding their entry into the environment, and assessment of effects on organisms and risks to people.
A new study proposes that purchasing extraction rights for dirty fossil fuels in non-participating countries is a more effective way to combat climate change. By conserving these deposits, coalitions can reduce emissions and mitigate carbon leakage, allowing them to implement their ideal policy without fear of non-participating countri...
Increasing escapement can improve the natural environment by benefiting grizzly bears, who will consume more salmon and occur at higher densities. This leads to a better environment for salmon, with more discarded salmon entering downstream life and enriching the ecosystem.
Researchers have discovered a new species of scorpion in Death Valley National Park, California. The species, Wernerius inyoensis, is small and closely related to other species found in Joshua Tree National Park and along the lower Colorado River.
Slugs are major crop pests in no-till field crops, with limited management options available. Integrated pest management options, including cultural, biological, and chemical controls, are suggested for common mid-Atlantic slug species.
Researchers from Taiwan studied a local industrial park, measuring air and water pollution, solid waste production, and energy consumption. They proposed a management model based on sustainable practices to reduce the negative environmental impact of industrial parks.
A study by North Carolina State University found that most college athletics departments lack formal relationships with campus groups working on sustainability initiatives. Athletic department representatives understand the importance of sustainability, but few have incorporated sustainable practices into their strategic plans.
A new study found that top US companies promote sustainability on their websites to attract and retain profitable customers. The researchers assessed the environmental efforts of 500 leading companies and discovered a significant increase in sustainability programs across industries since 2008.
A WSU study suggests chain hotels are more likely to adopt energy-efficient light bulbs, train staff to reduce waste, and educate guests on water conservation. This trend may give independents a competitive disadvantage in attracting customers. Hotels can save up to $6.75 per day by implementing greener practices.
A study by the Wildlife Conservation Society identified 8 changes that occur on coral reefs before they collapse due to overfishing. Researchers found a 'window' of maximum sustainable yield between 300-600 kilograms per hectare, but when fish stocks drop below this threshold, reef degradation accelerates.
A new framework for evaluating human influences on wildfires is developed to inform sustainable fire management practices. The research emphasizes the importance of understanding relative influences of climate, human ignition sources, and cultural practices in particular environments.
Researchers from CSIRO and universities have developed a pragmatic decision framework for determining when to relocate species due to climate change. The framework considers factors such as population size and expected losses through relocation to determine the best timing for moving species.
Despite a decentralized system, some California water agencies are taking on groundwater protection without state leadership. Innovations include conservation strategies and increased transparency through partnerships with environmental organizations. However, critical overdraft issues remain due to over-pumping and subsidence concerns.
A Baylor University study reveals that drought conditions make certain chemicals more toxic to fish and other aquatic life by altering the natural pH levels of the water. The researchers found extreme fluctuations in pH levels during record-breaking droughts, coinciding with increased toxicity to aquatic organisms.
Dr. Gadi V.P. Reddy has received a $188,000 grant from the USDA-NIFA Pest Management Alternatives Program to develop an ecologically sound and cost-effective Integrated Pest Management (IPM) program for tomato farmers in the region.
System 94L is making slow progress in a north-northeasterly direction, bringing clouds to eastern Cuba and the Bahamas. A 60% chance of showers and thunderstorms is forecast for the Bahamas as the low approaches, with a northeasterly track expected over the weekend.
A potent toxin, ciguatoxin, has been discovered in Hawaiian monk seals, posing a significant threat to their dwindling population. The toxin accumulates in fish consumed by humans and causes acute gastrointestinal and neurological illness.
Research suggests that implementing landfill gas-recovery projects quickly can maximize methane gas retrieval from organic waste. Landfill gas (LFG) has the potential to be used as an alternative fuel, with half the caloric value of natural gas.
Research reveals climbing affects plant size and distribution, altering genetic variation; conservation plans recommended to protect native vegetation
The new journal Environmental Development aims to provide solutions to regional environmental issues through rapid assessments and integrative approaches. It bridges the gap between natural sciences, social sciences, and policy makers to foster global action and knowledge sharing.
A group of scientists argue that prescribed burning may cause more problems than it solves, as there is little evidence that Mediterranean-climate plants are fire-adapted. The researchers suggest alternative management practices to prevent increased fire frequency.
A new study from the University of Missouri finds that ex-wife caregivers are more common than expected, offering unique characteristics and motivations. Women provide care to their ex-husbands due to emotional attachments, shared children, or a desire to maintain relationships.
The pilot project uses a vegetative cap made from topsoil, compost, and tree and shrub planting to seal the old landfill. This approach reduces methane emissions and prevents rainfall from penetrating into groundwater, ultimately improving the health of the Chesapeake Bay by sequestering carbon.
Researchers found that communities of similar-looking catfish often comprise multiple species, highlighting the hidden diversity and complexity of neotropical freshwater ecosystems. The discovery has significant implications for environmental conservation, as many rivers are facing large-scale development and habitat destruction.
Researchers in India have found that various kitchen waste water filtration systems can produce clean water suitable for agricultural or horticultural use. Ceramic microfiltration membrane systems with physicochemical treatments such as biotreatment and adsorption showed promising results, removing up to 98% of BOD and 99% of COD.
Scientists successfully removed amoxicillin, a top five US-prescribed drug, and other substances like nitrates and dyes from water samples using Octolig. The process has implications for reducing environmental contamination and point-source pollution.
Scientists urge increased focus and better management for reefs south of the Great Barrier Reef and WA tropical coral zone, critical refuges for northern tropical marine life. The Coffs Harbour Declaration highlights seven priorities to improve subtropical marine environment management.
A new international population study led by the University of Cincinnati examines the human developmental effects of environmental exposure to complex metal mixtures found in electronic waste. The research aims to identify potential preventative measures to reduce human exposures, particularly for pregnant women and young children livi...
A novel program in Livingston County, NY, uses EMS technicians to identify and address unmet needs of elderly residents, resulting in high patient satisfaction rates. The program's success highlights the potential of innovative collaboration between healthcare providers and social services to improve quality of life for seniors.
The conference focuses on managing global health security during mass gatherings, such as the Hajj pilgrimage. It covers various areas including communicable disease alert and response systems, water and sanitation management, and bioterrorism management.
The specter of climate change is forcing scientists and managers to consider relocating endangered species to new habitats. This approach, known as managed relocation, raises important ethical questions about the feasibility and consequences of such actions. While some argue that relocation can help save species, others raise concerns ...
A new study estimated human activities' impact on the North East Atlantic deep seafloor, finding bottom trawling has a greater physical footprint than other major activities. The research highlights the need for better data collection and management to protect seafloor ecosystems.
Research reveals that farm management choices significantly influence arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi distribution, with organic farming showing higher AMF richness. This understanding can improve crop production and promote sustainable agricultural practices to address food security and climate change challenges.