Articles tagged with Water Pollution
Researchers will assess storm water quality and implement Low Impact Development techniques to treat pollutants, ultimately aiming to enhance the city's ability to provide drinking water for its growing population.
A new study by Georgia Tech researchers shows that air pollution from East Asia has a devastating impact on oxygen levels in tropical waters. The pollutants kick off a chain reaction contributing to falling oxygen levels thousands of miles away.
Scientists from the Malaspina expedition found that polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons account for 15% of oceanic CO2 deposits, with 90,000 tonnes entering Atlantic, Pacific, and Indian Oceans monthly. These pollutants can affect ocean life due to their toxicity and alter cloud formation cycles.
A new roundworm species discovered in India is a bridge between two genera, Acrostichus and Diplogastrellus. The species exhibits intermediate characteristics, such as a narrow mouth cavity and robust male copulatory organs, making it a transitional species.
Researchers have demonstrated the creation of a chemically active 3D-printed structure that can mitigate pollution. By adding nanoparticles to a polymer, they created a matrix that breaks down organic pollutants when exposed to natural light.
Research finds that botulism in waterbirds is spread by an invasive species of freshwater snail carrying Clostridium botulinum, which thrives in polluted wetlands. Global warming is expected to exacerbate outbreaks due to increased temperatures and drought.
A genetic study on 'Burnt Hot Dog' sea cucumbers reveals low genetic diversity in polluted areas, highlighting the need for increased fisheries management and protections. The study also finds that these sea cucumbers play a crucial role in maintaining marine ecosystems.
A Northeastern University research team has mapped a mass feeding frenzy involving eight highly protected species of whales and dolphins in the U.S. Gulf of Maine region. The study uses innovative underwater acoustic sensing methods to understand predator-prey interactions and their implications for conserving marine ecosystems.
Research from the University of Exeter and Plymouth Marine Laboratory reveals that plankton ingesting microplastics produce faeces that sink more slowly, allowing plastic to be transported to deeper waters. This process could have significant implications for marine ecosystems and the removal of floating plastic litter.
A new study from the University of Southampton found that inland freshwater fisheries with higher biodiversity have higher-yielding and more stable fisheries. The research suggests that maintaining healthy freshwater systems is critical for food security and livelihoods, particularly in developing countries.
The top 5 finalists of the Green and Sustainable Chemistry Challenge were selected from almost 500 submissions worldwide. The projects aim to provide environmentally friendly processes, products, and resources for developing countries. The winning project will receive €50,000, while the second prize winner will get €25,000.
Researchers analyzed hundreds of peer-reviewed articles to find that fish populations worldwide are contaminated with industrial and agricultural pollutants. However, pollutant concentrations have been consistently dropping over the last 30 years.
A new study finds that global mercury regulations will lead to twice the economic benefits for the US as domestic policy, with estimated lifetime benefits of $339 billion and economy-wide benefits of $104 billion. Domestic policies are expected to benefit those who consume locally caught freshwater fish more.
The Rhine River has been found to be among the most polluted rivers worldwide due to high levels of microplastic pollution. The river's surface contained an average of 892,777 particles per square kilometer, with some areas reaching peak concentrations of up to 3.9 million plastic items per square kilometer.
Studies by Dartmouth researchers found that mixing of sediments and microorganisms significantly impact methylmercury production, contradicting earlier assumptions about sediments as the primary source.
Researchers found that pesticides can have lasting impacts on aquatic ecosystems, affecting populations of small crustaceans and zooplankton. The study's results suggest that standard toxicity tests may not capture the full extent of pollution in waters.
Researchers at the University of Bristol have developed a row-bot that can operate indefinitely in remote locations by harnessing energy from dirty water. The robot's bio-inspired mechanism allows it to feed on nutrient-rich water, generating electricity through microbial fuel cells.
Researchers at Lund University estimate that sea traffic emissions account for almost half of measured particles in coastal air, exceeding previous estimates. Nanoparticles can penetrate deeper into the lungs than larger particles, contributing to health issues.
The diversity and number of foraminifera in Bellingham Bay and Bremerton areas have deteriorated significantly, despite a reduction in chemical pollutants. Researchers are investigating alternative environmental factors, including high acidity caused by decomposition of organic matter and industrial contaminants.
Research found that water treatment plant effluents can boost the activity of some organisms while harming others, affecting respiration and photosynthesis. The study suggests that current water treatment plants are not totally efficient and need improvement to maintain healthy river ecosystems.
A new study assesses the underlying causes of Delhi's severe air pollution, attributing it to a combination of industrial waste, population growth, and urban landscape. The research highlights the need for innovative solutions to address this complex problem and protect public health.
All seven species of marine turtles can ingest or become entangled in discarded plastic debris, posing serious threats to their health and survival. The study highlights the urgent need for further research to understand the scale of the problem and develop effective mitigation policies.
A new study suggests creating quiet marine zones to better understand the impact of human-generated noise on marine animals. The researchers mapped areas of high and low noise pollution in the oceans around Canada and found a correlation between noise levels and animal behavior.
Researchers have designed enzyme-functionalized micromotors that can rapidly remove carbon dioxide from water and convert it into a usable solid form, potentially helping to mitigate ocean acidification and global warming.
Research reveals almost 100,000 tiny microbeads can be released with every application of certain facial scrubs, contaminating oceans. The study estimates up to 80 tonnes of unnecessary microplastic waste could enter the sea each year from UK cosmetic use.
Researchers developed a new mathematical model to simulate water pollution in alluvial rivers, accounting for sediment transport and riverbed evolution. The study improves understanding of pollutant transport dynamics, providing an effective tool for water safety and river management.
Researchers analyzed data from airborne sensors deployed during Hurricane Isaac's passage, revealing a downwelling of warm waters that deepened the storm's fuel tank. The study also showed how hurricane-generated currents and eddies can transport oil and other pollutants to coastal beaches.
Senator Ben Cardin receives the 2015 ESA Regional Policy Award for his decades-long commitment to environmental protection and ecosystem health. The award recognizes his efforts to promote Chesapeake Bay restoration, address climate change, and ensure science is at the table in federal policymaking.
Researchers found that sunlight can degrade neonicotinoids in water, but not always quickly enough to protect aquatic life and bees. In shallow depths of just 3 inches, certain insecticides persisted, increasing exposure risks for wildlife.
A new genetic 'switch' device can detect damaging contaminants like TNT, offering a cheaper and easier method for cleaning up post-war explosive chemicals. The system is cell-free, specific, and requires minimal expertise, but further research is needed to refine its sensitivity.
Researchers developed a new model to predict harmful bacteria levels on beaches, using information on waves, tides, and rainfall. The model provides beach managers with an easily accessible computer tool to identify when closures are required to protect human health.
Researchers from the University of Missouri and USGS found that atmospheric releases of Bisphenol-A (BPA) can elevate its levels in nearby surface waters, threatening aquatic species and humans. BPA concentrations were up to ten times higher near known atmospheric release sites, indicating a potential novel route of exposure.
Research on River Deba sediment pollution reveals the impact of anthropogenic inputs and flooding events on metal distribution. The study found a clear increase in organic matter and metals between the headwater and mouth of the river, with highly polluted sediments reflecting upstream pollution.
A new study by Jena University researchers finds that airport de-icing chemicals can decrease oxygen content in soils and groundwater, leading to dramatic pollution and ecosystem damage. The team suggests using natural self-cleaning capacities of the soil, controlling oxygen levels, or alternative substances for pollutant degradation.
Researchers at the University of Sheffield used tampons to identify sewage pollution in rivers by detecting optical brighteners under UV light. The technique was found to be effective in detecting pollutants from just 0.01ml of detergent per litre of water, and helped pinpoint the sources of pollution.
Research in the Bay of Biscay found liver pathologies, tumors, and other health problems in deep-water fish, linked to human-caused pollution. The study also discovered the first case of an intersex condition in a deep water fish species.
A new satellite will monitor solar storms and detect pollution from underground aquifers that seep into the ocean. The Deep Space Climate Observatory will provide critical warnings for astronauts and operators of planetary infrastructure.
A study found that pollution has led to a significant increase in cyanobacteria populations in lakes across North America and Europe over the last 200 years. The research highlights the importance of controlling nutrient inputs from industrial fertilizers and sewage discharge.
A new report warns that US coastal communities dependent on the $1 billion shelled mollusk industry face long-term economic risks from ocean acidification. The analysis identified several 'hot zones' facing a number of risk factors, including the Pacific Northwest and Gulf of Mexico regions.
A recent study published in Science estimates that between 4.8 and 12.7 million metric tons of plastic enter the ocean every year, mainly from coastal regions. The researchers used a grand model to estimate the amount of plastic waste entering the ocean and found that it is significantly higher than previously estimated.
A new study by the NCEAS Marine Debris Working Group estimates that over 4.8 million metric tons of plastic waste enter the world's oceans from land annually, with a possible maximum of 12.7 million metric tons.
Researchers found that a simple column of common soil can reverse the toxic effects of urban runoff, killing young coho salmon and their insect prey. The affordable treatment offers new promise for controlling toxic pollutants in rivers, streams, and oceans.
A new study by the University of Waterloo has found that heavy metal emissions from Alberta's oil sands have not increased contaminant levels in the Athabasca River, despite concerns from local communities. The research developed a novel approach to determine pre-industrial baseline levels of metals in river sediment.
A study published in PLOS ONE estimates that nearly 269,000 tons of plastic pollution are floating in the world's oceans, with an additional 5 trillion microplastic particles present. This research was conducted over six years across five sub-tropical gyres and coastal regions.
A new study using satellite data estimated global ship traffic from 1992 to 2012, finding a four-fold increase over the past 20 years. Shipping traffic grew faster in the Indian Ocean, peaking at a rate of 10% per year in 2011.
A low-cost electronic tongue has been developed to detect various substances in samples, including food, water, and blood, enabling accurate quality checks and monitoring for pollutants. The device's precision and affordability make it suitable for applications in medical diagnostics, pharmaceutical testing, and environmental monitoring.
A recent study suggests that most ammonium deposited over the open ocean comes from natural marine sources, not human activities. The research used rainwater samples and nitrogen isotopes to separate human-made and natural sources.
Research reveals that consuming non-native algae 'superweeds' rich in arginine promotes the deadly virus causing tumors in endangered sea turtles. The disease is considered the leading cause of death for green sea turtles, with over 60% of Kāne'ohe Bay turtles bearing tumors.
Research reveals China's carbon intensity increased by 3% due to economic growth, offsetting efforts to reduce emissions. Despite improvements in carbon efficiency in some provinces, industrial projects and production expansion negate gains.
A new study published in PeerJ found that pollution in urban and farm runoff in Hawaii causes tumors in endangered sea turtles. The researchers discovered that high levels of nitrogen in the runoff promote the formation of tumors on the animals' eyes, flippers, and internal organs.
A recent study published in Applied Geography highlights the significant impact of oil discharges from human maritime activity on the Canadian coast. The research, led by University of Calgary geographer Stefania Bertazzon, shows that recreational activities such as boating and fishing are major contributors to ocean pollution.
Researchers found microplastics in nearly every sediment sample from the St. Lawrence River, with concentrations rivaling those in the world's most contaminated ocean sediments. The discovery raises concerns about the potential impact of microplastics on freshwater ecosystems.
A new study by Duke University researchers suggests that water-quality trading programs can significantly lower costs of achieving Clean Water Act goals. By allowing polluters to buy, sell or trade credits, these programs can reduce pollution in river basins and estuaries faster and at a lower cost than requiring facilities to meet com...
Researchers discovered microplastic particles in the form of polyethylene microbeads in St. Lawrence River sediments, with concentrations exceeding 1000 per liter. The findings raise concerns about fish and other animals consuming these particles, potentially transferring chemicals to the ecosystem.
Scientists from University of Miami's Rosenstiel School conducted a drifter experiment to study small-scale ocean currents, revealing their crucial role in pollutant dispersion. The findings provide new information for predicting oil and pollutant movements in the ocean, with immediate practical applications.
Researchers estimate mercury levels in global ocean, separating natural and human sources for the first time. The study found that ocean waters shallower than 100m have tripled in mercury concentration since the Industrial Revolution.
A team of University of California, Riverside students designed a tray that reduces particulate matter pollution from grilling by 70% when placed under grill grates. The tray, which can be installed in existing grills, draws untreated air through a filter to decrease PM2.5 emissions.
A new study by researchers from NIST and the Hollings Marine Laboratory found that persistent organic pollutants (POPs) are not linked to fibropapillomatosis, a disease causing tumors in green sea turtles. The team detected halogenated phenols in turtle tissues, suggesting these compounds may be coming from algae in their diet.
A recent study by the University of Cadiz reveals five large accumulations of plastic debris in the open oceans, coinciding with major ocean gyres. The study estimates tens of thousands of tonnes of plastics on surface waters, influencing sea creatures' behavior and food chains.
Over 2300 British rivers have shown significant improvements in cleanliness, with many clean-water organisms returning to previously polluted areas. Improved water quality has helped offset the negative impacts of climate change on river ecosystems.