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Oil spill: where and when will it reach the beach? Answers to prevent environmental impacts

A recent study used the MEDSLIK-II model to forecast the spread of an oil spill, predicting its arrival at French beaches 7 days in advance. The collaboration between CMCC Foundation and REMPEC ensured timely exchange of information, producing accurate forecasts that aided coastal preparedness.

SourceCMCC Foundation - Euro-Mediterranean Center on Climate Change·JournalMarine Pollution Bulletin·DateApr 6, 2020

Increasingly mobile sea ice risks polluting Arctic neighbors

New research from McGill University predicts a significant increase in Arctic sea ice movement by mid-century, leading to more widespread pollutant transport between neighboring countries. Thinner, faster-moving ice can carry pollutants and microplastics, posing a threat to Arctic waters.

SourceMcGill University·DateMar 19, 2020

Submersible sensors rapidly detect bacterial pollution in water

Environmental engineers at San Diego State University have developed a rapid detection system for bacterial contamination in water, which can alert authorities to pollution in real-time. The system uses tryptophan as a marker and has been tested in Alvarado Creek, where it correctly identified sewage leaks and spills.

SourceSan Diego State University·JournalThe Science of The Total Environment·DateMar 11, 2020
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.

Sensor cube helps keep fish farming afloat

A team of researchers created a small, self-powered sensor cube that monitors multiple water quality characteristics, including pH, temperature, salinity, and ammonia levels, to help prevent fish deaths due to pollution.

SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalSmall·DateFeb 27, 2020

Warming, acidic oceans may nearly eliminate coral reef habitats by 2100

New research suggests that rising sea surface temperatures and acidic waters could eliminate nearly all existing coral reef habitats by 2100. The study found that few to zero suitable coral habitats will remain by 2100, with only small portions of Baja California and the Red Sea being viable locations for coral reefs.

SourceAmerican Geophysical Union·DateFeb 17, 2020
Creality K1 Max 3D Printer

Creality K1 Max 3D Printer rapidly prototypes brackets, adapters, and fixtures for instruments and classroom demonstrations at large build volume.

Microplastics from ocean fishing can 'hide' in deep sediments

Researchers found a strong correlation between the intensity of fishing activities and microplastic abundance in sediment samples. Microplastics were detected even one foot below the surface, suggesting that previous studies may have underestimated ocean sediment pollution.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·DateJan 29, 2020

How anti-sprawl policies may be harming water quality

Higher-density development with more impervious surfaces causes runoff, leading to increased water pollution. Agriculture also contributes significantly to water pollution, and anti-sprawl policies can prevent much-needed land-use changes that reduce pollution.

SourcePenn State·JournalResource and Energy Economics·DateJan 16, 2020
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

China's inland surface water quality significantly improves

China's inland surface water quality improved significantly from 2003-2017 due to reduced pollution emissions in industrial, rural, and urban residential sectors. Annual mean concentrations of chemical oxygen demand and ammonium nitrogen declined by 63% and 78%, respectively, at the national level.

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalScience Advances·DateJan 3, 2020

How to improve water quality in Europe

The EU Water Framework Directive needs further development to address the complex mixtures of pesticides, medicines, and industrial chemicals in European waters. Researchers have developed new concepts and tools to monitor and reduce exposure to these substances.

SourceHelmholtz Centre for Environmental Research - UFZ·JournalEnvironmental Sciences Europe·DateDec 3, 2019

Clean air research converts toxic air pollutant into industrial chemical

A new MOF material, MFM-520, has been developed to capture and convert nitrogen dioxide into nitric acid. The material can be regenerated multiple times and is suitable for use in air pollution control, with potential applications in the production of agricultural fertilizers, rocket propellants, and textiles.

SourceUniversity of Manchester·JournalNature Chemistry·DateNov 22, 2019

New danger for corals in warming oceans: Metal pollution

A Cornell-led study found that high copper concentrations in sediment increase disease recovery time for sea fans in Puerto Rico. Elevated copper levels stress corals' immune response, making them more susceptible to infection.

SourceCornell University·JournalEcological Applications·DateNov 19, 2019
Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C)

Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C) provide clear calls and strong noise reduction for interviews, conferences, and noisy field environments.

Pollution from Athabasca oil sands affects weather processes

Research by McGill University scientists found that nanosized metal particles from the Athabasca oil sands accelerate ice nucleation, leading to more frequent and intense extreme weather events. The pollution is also significantly higher near the oil sands than in a Canadian city.

SourceMcGill University·JournalEnvironmental Pollution·DateNov 18, 2019

Rubber in the environment

Researchers calculated that over 30 years, around 200,000 tonnes of micro rubber accumulated in Switzerland's environment. Tire abrasion is the primary source of micro rubber, responsible for 97% of particles released.

SourceSwiss Federal Laboratories for Materials Science and Technology (EMPA)·JournalEnvironmental Pollution·DateNov 14, 2019

Huge gaps in research on microplastics in North America, PSU study finds

A new study highlights the need for more research on microplastics in North American waters, particularly among commercially important fish species. The team's findings emphasize the importance of understanding microplastic exposure and effects on populations and food webs to inform fisheries management decisions.

SourcePortland State University·JournalLimnology and Oceanography·DateNov 6, 2019
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.

Liquid metals the secret ingredients to clean up environment

Researchers have discovered that liquid metals, such as gallium, indium, bismuth, and tin, can be used to create catalysts for the conversion of CO2 into useful byproducts. By heating an alloy of these metals, they can melt at a lower temperature than individual metals, producing eutectic alloys with unique properties. These alloys can...

SourceUniversity of New South Wales·JournalNature Communications·DateOct 11, 2019

Plastic bottles in South Atlantic Ocean

Researchers found polyethylene terephthalate (PET) drinking bottles are the most abundant type of debris, increasing at 14.7% annually since the 1980s. The majority of recent bottles were manufactured in Asia, with China being a primary source.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 30, 2019

Ditch the delicate wash cycle to save our seas

Researchers at Newcastle University found that higher water volumes in delicate wash cycles release more plastic microfibres than standard cycles. The team discovered that the volume of water used during the wash cycle is the key factor, not spinning action, and that this can lead to a significant increase in released fibres.

SourceNewcastle University·DateSep 25, 2019
Meta Quest 3 512GB

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

Four billion particles of microplastics discovered in major body of water

A study by the University of South Florida and Eckerd College found four billion particles of microplastics in Tampa Bay's waters, highlighting the need to address plastic pollution. Microplastics, tiny plastic particles less than 1/8 inch, come from various sources and can harm marine life through ingestion or surface damage.

SourceUniversity of South Florida·JournalMarine Pollution Bulletin·DateSep 12, 2019

Doubling down

A new study finds that human impacts on oceans have nearly doubled over the past decade and could increase by another 50% if left unchecked. Climate change, commercial fishing, and land-based pollution are major drivers of these changes.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·JournalScientific Reports·DateAug 13, 2019
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

Chicago water pollution may be keeping invasive silver carp out of Great Lakes, study says

A new study by University of Illinois researchers suggests that Chicago's water pollution is likely keeping invasive silver carp out of the Great Lakes. The study found that certain compounds in the water flowing downstream from Chicago induce avoidance behaviors in fish, causing them to stop moving upstream.

SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·DateAug 9, 2019

Toxic chemicals hindering the recovery of Britain's rivers

A recent study by Cardiff University and others found that Welsh rivers in urban locations have damaged food chains and fewer species of invertebrates compared to rural rivers. Persistent industrial pollutants like PCBs and PBDEs may be responsible for these effects, persisting despite being phased out.

SourceCardiff University·JournalWater Research·DateAug 1, 2019
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.

Magnetic 'springs' break down marine microplastic pollution

Researchers have developed a new approach to purging water sources of microplastics using tiny coil-shaped carbon-based magnets, known as magnetic nanosprings. These stable catalysts can remove a significant fraction of microplastics in just eight hours and are also magnetic, making them easy to collect for repeated use.

SourceCell Press·JournalMatter·DateJul 31, 2019

Portland State study shows ways to reduce extreme heat in city neighborhoods

A new Portland State University study demonstrates how planting more vegetation, using reflective materials on hard surfaces, and installing green roofs can help cool urban heat islands. The research found that these solutions can make a significant difference in reducing temperatures, even when applied in combination.

SourcePortland State University·JournalAtmosphere·DateJul 8, 2019

Our water cycle diagrams give a false sense of water security

Researchers created new water cycle diagrams to promote better understanding of human impact on the 21st century water cycle. The diagrams depict human activities such as consumption, land use changes, and climate change, highlighting the need for accurate representation.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalNature Geoscience·DateJul 1, 2019
Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor

Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor tracks ventilation quality in labs, classrooms, and conference rooms with long battery life and clear e-ink readouts.

Fifty years after the Cuyahoga conflagration

The Cuyahoga River has made significant improvements since the 1969 conflagration, but experts say full recovery will take time. The Clean Water Act and EPA formation helped reduce industrial wastewater discharge and upgrade treatment infrastructure.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalChemical & Engineering News·DateJun 19, 2019

FEFU scientist reported on concentration of pesticides in marine organisms

A study by FEFU ecologist Vasiliy Tsygankov reveals a significant decrease in pesticide concentrations in Russian Far Eastern mussels, suggesting a shift in the environmental situation. Pesticides accumulate in marine organisms' fat tissue and can lead to biomagnification, causing poisoning and genetic changes.

SourceFar Eastern Federal University·JournalWater Research·DateJun 19, 2019

EWG: Nitrate pollution of US tap water could cause 12,500 cancer cases each year

A new peer-reviewed study by the Environmental Working Group estimates that nitrate pollution in US tap water may cause up to 12,594 cancer cases per year, with colorectal cancer being the most common type. The study also calculates potential economic costs of treating those cases at up to $1.5 billion annually.

SourceEnvironmental Working Group·JournalEnvironmental Research·DateJun 11, 2019

Our water cycle diagrams give a false sense of water security

Experts argue that current water cycle diagrams are misleading due to lack of human interaction representation, leading to a false sense of water security. A new set of diagrams shows human influence on nearly all parts of the cycle, highlighting the need for better understanding and global solutions to the world's water crisis.

SourceUniversity of Birmingham·JournalNature Geoscience·DateJun 10, 2019

New polymer tackles PFAS pollution

A new polymer has been discovered that can effectively remove PFAS from water, reducing the risk of contamination in drinking water sources. The low-cost and environmentally friendly method uses waste cooking oil and powdered activated carbon to purify thousands of liters of water.

SourceFlinders University·JournalACS Sustainable Chemistry & Engineering·DateJun 5, 2019
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.

How to prevent mosquitofish from spreading in water ecosystems

The mosquitofish is a highly invasive species that competes with native fish and moves them away from their habitats. Removing its population and improving water quality are key strategies to control its spread in ponds and lakes.

SourceUniversity of Barcelona·JournalThe Science of The Total Environment·DateMay 24, 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.

Australian islands home to 414 million pieces of plastic pollution

The survey found an estimated 414 million pieces of plastic debris on the islands' beaches, including single-use consumer items like shoes and toothbrushes. The total volume dwarfs that found on Henderson Island, indicating a need for urgent action to reduce plastic production and consumption.

SourceUniversity of Tasmania·JournalScientific Reports·DateMay 16, 2019

An evolutionary rescue in polluted waters

A species of fish in Texas' Houston Ship Channel adapted to extreme pollution due to its large population, good genes, and luck. The Gulf killifish benefited from genetic resources from a long-distant relative, the Atlantic Coast killifish, which helped it develop resilience and resistance to toxins.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalScience·DateMay 2, 2019

The Tietê, São Paulo State's main river, is filtered by dam reservoirs

A study by Brazilian researchers shows that the Tietê River's water quality improves steadily as it flows through a series of dams along its 1,100 km course. The filtration process retains matter in suspension, affecting light absorption and ultimately making the river transparent at its downstream end.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalWater·DateApr 29, 2019
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

Controls could lead to increased pollution outside China's capital region

China's regional pollution policies are causing unintended spillover effects, increasing air and water pollution in neighboring provinces. The models project a significant increase in pollutants, carbon dioxide emissions, and water consumption outside the capital cities.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience Advances·DateApr 24, 2019
CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock

CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock simplifies serious desks with 18 ports for high-speed storage, monitors, and instruments across Mac and PC setups.

Unique oil-eating bacteria found in world's deepest ocean trench

Scientists from the University of East Anglia have discovered a unique group of oil-eating bacteria in the Mariana Trench, which is located approximately 11,000 meters below sea level. The bacteria are capable of consuming hydrocarbons similar to those found in crude oil and natural gas.

SourceUniversity of East Anglia·JournalMicrobiome·DateApr 11, 2019

Tracking the sources of plastic pollution

A new global initiative led by the University of Birmingham aims to better understand how plastics are transported and transformed in rivers, accumulating in river sediments. The project's first results show a complex picture with a huge diversity in types and sources of plastic in selected river estuaries.

SourceUniversity of Birmingham·DateApr 9, 2019
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.

Banned pesticides in Europe's rivers

A study of 29 waterways in 10 countries revealed more than 100 pesticides, including 24 unlicensed for EU use. The highest levels were found in a Belgian canal with 70 pesticides, contaminating every screened river and canal.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalThe Science of The Total Environment·DateApr 8, 2019

Sea anemones are ingesting plastic microfibers

New research finds that sea anemones consume tiny fragments of plastic in the ocean along with their food. Bleached anemones retain these microfibers longer than healthy ones, highlighting the impact of plastic pollution and climate change on coral reefs.

SourceCarnegie Institution for Science·JournalEnvironmental Pollution·DateMar 28, 2019

Defects help nanomaterial soak up more pollutant in less time

Rice University researchers developed a novel molecular sieve that can remove perfluorooctanesulfonic acid (PFOS) from polluted water more efficiently and effectively than current technologies. The nanomaterial features random, large-pore defects that improve its adsorption capacity and fast-adsorption kinetics.

SourceRice University·JournalACS Sustainable Chemistry & Engineering·DateMar 13, 2019

No silver bullet for helping the Great Barrier Reef

Chronic exposure to poor water quality limits coral recovery rates across the Great Barrier Reef. Improving water quality can enhance recovery rates, but it won't suffice to rescue the reef from threats like climate change and pollution.

SourceLancaster University·JournalNature Ecology & Evolution·DateMar 11, 2019
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.

Scientists reveal impacts of anthropogenic nitrogen discharge on nitrogen transport in global rivers

The study found that anthropogenic nitrogen discharge significantly increased DIN in US rivers due to fertilizer use, while European rivers were affected by point source pollution. The total anthropogenic impact on Pacific Ocean export has risen from 10% to 30% over the past 20 years.

SourceInstitute of Atmospheric Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences·JournalGlobal Change Biology·DateFeb 22, 2019
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.