Articles tagged with Water Pollution
Researchers from INRS develop electrolytic treatment of wastewater to degrade microplastics directly at the source. The technology breaks down microplastics into non-toxic CO2 and water molecules, offering a promising solution for mitigating their environmental impact.
Researchers successfully tracked and sampled a moving microbial community using a trio of self-driving robots in an open-ocean eddy. The study reveals key insights into the behavior of phytoplankton biomass in these dynamic environments.
The study confirms that nutrient imbalance in northeast Asian waters is disrupting phytoplankton species and marine ecosystems. Nitrogen pollutant inflow since the 1980s has led to changes in oceanic conditions, particularly near Ieodo Ocean Research Station.
Researchers found that four commonly consumed mussel species globally contained microplastic particles, with varying levels of contamination. The study reveals the widespread presence of microplastics in mussels worldwide, including those from the North Atlantic and South Pacific regions.
Researchers have discovered that tiny bubbles on electrodes can facilitate electrochemical reactions, leading to faster pollutant removal and chlorine production. The formation of hydroxide anions in the bubble's corona accelerates these processes, making them more efficient than usual.
A new report reveals widespread ocean pollution poses significant human health risks, affecting 3 billion people. The study recommends banning coal combustion and single-use plastics to mitigate these impacts.
Researchers from the University of Exeter and ZSL used GPS and satellite tags in plastic bottles to track plastic pollution in the Ganges river and Bay of Bengal. The study found that plastic pollution can travel thousands of kilometers in just a few months, with some bottles traveling up to 2,845km in 94 days.
A new study successfully tracks 'bottle tags' through the Ganges River system and into the Bay of Bengal, revealing how plastic pollution moves through rivers. The tracking method uses reclaimed bottles with custom-designed electronics, allowing for detailed insights into river transport of plastic pollution.
New research finds that plastics in seawater can cause deformities and developmental problems in sea urchin larvae due to chemical leaching. The study highlights the importance of reducing plastic pollution and finding alternatives to replace harmful additives.
The London International Development Centre Director has led a successful funding bid for a project to filter out pollution in the Nairobi River. The river is ranked among the top ten global waterways in terms of pharmaceutical contamination, posing significant environmental and health hazards.
A new study suggests that reducing aerosol pollution without also cutting carbon dioxide emissions could weaken the ocean's ability to keep the planet cool. This could lead to a shift in the region where most of the ocean is taking up heat, potentially destabilizing the climate.
The four-year project will map the sources of plastic waste, investigate its effects and generate solutions to reduce waste. Researchers will work with governments, businesses and communities to co-design effective ways to cut plastic pollution.
A University of Michigan-led research team found that toxic mercury pollution from fish carcasses reaches the deepest ocean trenches, including the Mariana Trench. The study suggests that most of this mercury comes from human activities, posing a threat to seafood safety and human health.
A Princeton University study has revealed the mechanism by which microplastic particles, like Styrofoam, move through porous media, allowing them to accumulate in food and water sources. The research found that microplastics get stuck when traveling through soil but later break free and continue moving substantially further.
The US EPA has listed 1,4-dioxane as a likely carcinogen due to its persistence in water. Advanced oxidation processes can remove it, but are expensive and energy-intensive. Communities using wells for public drinking water are especially prone to contamination.
A study by the University of York reveals that metal pollution from historic mining is weakening scallop shells, threatening marine ecosystems. The research found that contaminated seabed sediments with zinc, lead, and copper are causing brittle shell thinning, affecting the species' survival.
Researchers have discovered a new form of calcium carbonate that is soft and absorbent, found in mussel shells. They tested its ability to absorb oils and dyes, finding it highly effective but limited by scalability and cost, for potential use in marine pollution cleanup.
A Tel Aviv University study compared disposable dishes made of regular plastic and bioplastic, finding that both had a similar detrimental effect on marine animals. Bioplastics do not degrade rapidly in the marine environment, releasing toxins and harming marine life.
The BlueSwell Incubator Program has selected its first cohort of six startups, which will receive grants and mentorship to support the development of innovative solutions for ocean health and sustainable industries. The program aims to bridge the gaps between innovators, industry experts, and venture communities, with a focus on commer...
A research team led by Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München found that marine sponges can accumulate microparticles, including plastics and textile fibers, in their tissues. The study suggests that sponges could serve as useful bioindicators for monitoring microscopic pollutants in the seas.
An international team led by the University of Exeter and National University of Singapore is investigating plastic pollution in Southeast Asia's marine ecosystems. The three-year project will assess life cycles and impacts on wildlife, identifying solutions to prevent plastic pollution.
A new study by the Environmental Working Group estimates that more than 200 million Americans could have toxic PFAS in their drinking water. The analysis found high levels of PFAS in major metropolitan areas and dozens of U.S. cities, highlighting the widespread contamination issue.
Researchers used PAHs to monitor pollution and track down its sources in various ecosystems, including soils, plants, and water. The team identified key factors that impact PAHs accumulation, providing a new tool for environmental monitoring and pollution analysis.
Researchers estimate 5.6 million metric tonnes of synthetic microfibers emitted from apparel washing between 1950 and 2016, with half generated in the last decade alone. The fibers accumulate in wastewater treatment sludge, posing a terrestrial pollution issue.
A nationwide survey of land use impacts on water quality in Brazil reveals that agriculture and urbanization are the main culprits behind river pollution. The study found that degradation varies according to scale or dimension used to evaluate it, and that catchment analysis appears to best reflect overall water quality.
Climate change may lead to increased sedimentation (39-69%) and higher peak streamflows carrying more pollutants into the Bay-Delta. The added sediment could also support wetland habitats and native species as sea levels rise.
Research monitored 30 Chinese lakes between 2008 and 2018, showing increases in total phosphorus and chlorophyll a across 47% and 70% of lakes, respectively. Climate change and internal loading from sediments also pose significant challenges to lake restoration efforts.
A new study has quantified the extent of human development in oceans for the first time, mapping an area of approximately 30,000 square kilometers modified by human construction. This footprint is comparable to urbanized land and greater than some natural habitats like mangrove forests and seagrass beds.
Scientists present research on negative side effects of opioids influenced by the immune system, a new type of immunotherapy extending survival in mouse models of breast cancer, detectable micro- and nanoplastics in human tissues, interactions between ocean microbes and pollution influencing climate, bio-based communication networks co...
Excessive nutrients from agricultural runoff and sewage contribute to algal blooms that deplete oxygen, killing marine life. Climate change amplifies these effects by increasing river runoff and ocean acidification, which harm corals and shellfish.
Scientists used an 'ocean-in-a-lab' to show that air pollution can change the makeup of gases and aerosols released by sea spray, influencing atmospheric composition and weather. The study found that adding pollutants like hydroxyl radicals transformed microbe-produced gases into new compounds.
A new study by the University of Exeter and others found that surface clean-up devices will not solve the ocean plastic problem, but could be more effective when used with river barriers. The research estimates that floating plastic will peak at over 860,000 metric tonnes by 2052.
The Maldives has the highest level of microplastic pollution in the world, with high concentrations found in waters around Naifaru. The study highlights the impact on marine ecosystems and local communities, emphasizing the need for improved waste management practices.
A German-French research team is developing a new sensor network to monitor ship emissions and improve the monitoring of pollutants in the marine environment. The project aims to provide a tool for observing the extent of pollution arising from ship collisions, affecting coastal populations' health.
A collaborative study between UH researchers and Sumida Farm reveals the farm's adaptability to environmental changes through strong community connections. The team analyzed farm history, groundwater pumping, and climate data to identify trends in productivity.
A study uses hemispheric contrasts in satellite measurements to constrain possible changes in Earth's albedo since 1850 due to industrial aerosols. The results suggest that climate models underestimate preindustrial aerosol and cloud droplet concentrations.
Research finds that without immediate action, plastic flow will nearly triple by 2040, but solutions are available to reduce it by more than 80%. The study identifies measures such as reducing production and consumption, recycling, and expanding waste collection rates to achieve this goal.
A team of global experts predicts that plastic waste flowing into the seas each year could more than double by 2040, with 710 million tonnes expected to be discarded into the environment. Improving waste collection services is seen as the single most effective step in reducing pollution.
Researchers from UConn and Wesleyan University found high levels of mercury in the Still River, exceeding EPA guidance levels for weekly consumption. The study suggests that legacy mercury pollution is persisting in the environment and impacting the food web, with bioavailable forms posing a significant health risk to humans and wildlife.
A new study models a 78% reduction in global plastic pollution by 2040 with immediate and coordinated action. However, even this best-case scenario predicts 710 million metric tons of plastic will still reach the environment.
Scientists developed a new 2D material to produce hydrogen from fresh, salt, and polluted water by exposing it to sunlight. The material efficiently generates 0.5 liters of hydrogen in an hour from 100 square centimeters, making it one of the highest rates recorded for 2D materials.
Researchers isolated fibroblast cells from a stranded finless porpoise to predict the threat of environmental pollutants to its population. The study found that pollutants like PCBs and DDTs induce cell death and can cause cytotoxicity, apoptosis, and reduced cell viability.
The Schmidt Marine Coastal Pollution Challenge selected four innovative solutions to address the urgent need to eliminate the causes and reduce the impact of coastal pollution, specifically nitrogen and phosphorous. The winning projects include a biodegradable plastic alternative and a low-cost nitrogen sensor technology.
Researchers found that microplastic fibers impact lobster larvae's feeding and respiration. Young lobsters accumulate fibers under their shells, while older larvae ingest particles but keep them in their digestive systems.
A new review of 80 research papers reveals that microplastic pollution is concentrated in coastal habitats such as fjords and estuaries. The study found high concentrations of microplastics, up to 200,000 particles per kilogram, in these areas.
Researchers found toxic levels of mercury and blue-green algae in ancient Maya reservoirs, suggesting droughts may have contributed to the city's abandonment. The pollutants made the water toxic to drink, even if boiled, highlighting the importance of understanding environmental factors in ancient civilizations.
A study by NUI Galway found that wet wipes and sanitary towels are a significant source of white microplastic fibres in the marine environment, with 91% of microplastics at one location derived from these products. The lack of regulation for hygiene products has led to misleading labelling, causing environmental harm.
Scientists have discovered man-made mercury pollution in the Marianas Trench, the deepest part of the ocean. This finding has significant implications for the marine environment and food chain, highlighting the impact of human activities on the planet.
The study reveals that Tunisian lagoons have high levels of cadmium and other heavy metals in carpet shell clams, indicating severe pollution. The team's analysis also shows a correlation between temperature increases and higher levels of pollution.
Research in Curonian Spit beaches reveals significant macro waste pollution in isolated spots, while microplastic is evenly distributed due to sea storms, affecting the environment and nearby port city Klaipeda with massive industrial activity
A new study reveals that almost 13,000 tonnes of microfibres are released into European marine environments every year. Changing laundry habits, such as using cooler wash cycles, could save up to 3,813 tonnes of microfibres being released into marine ecosystems in Europe.
A team of Rochester Institute of Technology researchers will examine how microplastics accumulate in the lake's ecosystem using mathematical modeling, field surveys, fluid dynamics, genomic sequencing and other experiments. The goal is to inform policy and mitigation strategies for combating microplastic pollution.
Researchers have created iron-based and organic building blocks that connect to form tetrahedral cages, capturing certain PFAS. The traps bind to the outside of the cages instead of getting caught inside, providing insights into how they work.
A UK government-funded study identifies tyre particles as a major source of microplastics in the marine environment, contaminating rivers and coastal waters. Researchers estimate that around 100 million square meters of river network and 50 million square meters of estuarine and coastal waters are at risk of contamination.
New research reveals climate change impacts on tropical cyclone patterns, with rising activity in the North Atlantic and Central Pacific, while declining in other regions. Greenhouse gases, aerosols, and volcanic eruptions contribute to these changes.
Researchers found that coral reefs in Panama's Caribbean coast suffered significant declines in species diversity and abundance after a 1986 refinery accident. Thirty years later, the impacts of coastal development and human-related stressors on reefs were comparable to those of oil spills.
A global review highlights broad patterns of environmental pollution's impact on Indigenous groups, primarily through consumption of polluted water and food. Innovative strategies by Indigenous communities aim to limit and abate pollution.
Researchers at RIT have developed the first three-dimensional model to show where microplastic pollution is collecting in Lake Erie. The study found that plastic particles accumulate more heavily on the eastern shore of the lake, with different types of plastics concentrated in different areas.
Cornell University chemists have developed a new polymer that degrades by ultraviolet radiation, reducing persistent plastic accumulation in the environment. The material, isotactic polypropylene oxide, has mechanical properties comparable to commercial fishing gear and can break down on a realistic time scale.
Researchers used computer modeling to understand sources and distribution of arsenic-polluted groundwater, pinpointing the source to river muds that fuelled biogeochemical reactions. The model highlighted four key factors influencing arsenic release at surface water/groundwater interfaces.