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New data show reduced overall PFAS exposures in subarctic ocean

A new study from Harvard found that North Atlantic pilot whales have 60% lower concentrations of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in their bodies since the phaseout of these chemicals. The researchers measured bulk organofluorine levels as a proxy for total PFAS concentrations, including newer types of PFAS.

SourceHarvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJan 26, 2026

Study: Cigarette filters are an underestimated source of microplastic pollution

A recent study from the University at Buffalo has found that cigarette filters release up to two dozen microfibers upon first contact with water, posing a significant threat to wildlife and human health. The researchers estimated that over 71 million to 1.4 billion cigarette butt microfibers are released into New York waters every day.

SourceUniversity at Buffalo·JournalJournal of Hazardous Materials·DateJan 20, 2026

Researchers use failed batteries to fight “forever chemicals”

Scientists have developed a new technique using failed battery components to intentionally degrade water pollutants known as per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS). The method, published in Nature Chemistry, achieves remarkable results in breaking down long-chain PFAS molecules into mineralized fluorine.

SourceUniversity of Chicago·JournalNature Chemistry·DateJan 20, 2026

Scientists trace microplastics in fertilizer from fields to the beach

Researchers from Tokyo Metropolitan University found that only 0.2% of used PCFs are washed into rivers, while 28% end up back on beaches near direct drainage points. The study highlights a significant 'sink' in the global circulation of plastics and sheds light on the complex transport of microplastics.

SourceTokyo Metropolitan University·JournalMarine Pollution Bulletin·DateJan 17, 2026
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Illinois researchers untangle drivers of nitrogen loss in the Upper Mississippi River Basin

Scientists differentiate between human-derived and hydrological contributions to riverine nitrogen pollution, finding that about half of the increase in nitrogen loss is due to human activity. The study suggests tailored solutions for different regions, focusing on reducing fertilizer inputs and managing precipitation.

SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·DateJan 16, 2026

Korea University Institute for Environmental Health completed an invited training to strengthen environmental health capacity for Karakalpakstan Medical Institute

Korea University's Institute for Environmental Health trained faculty members from Karakalpakstan Medical Institute to improve environmental health in the region. The training aimed to enhance water quality and waste disposal management, fostering collaboration and joint research.

SourceKorea University College of Medicine·DateJan 12, 2026
Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition

Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition is a durable star atlas for planning sessions, identifying targets, and teaching celestial navigation.

‘Forever chemicals’ may increase liver disease risk in adolescents by as much as 3-fold

A new study found that higher levels of PFAS in the blood are linked to an increased risk of early onset of metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) in adolescents. MASLD affects up to 40% of children with obesity and increases long-term risk for type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and liver cancer.

SourceKeck School of Medicine of USC·JournalEnvironmental Research·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJan 6, 2026

Four years after the Mariana mining disaster in Brazil, river fish remained contaminated

A comprehensive analysis of 503 fish found high levels of 13 heavy metals and toxic substances, making consumption inadvisable due to health risks. The study highlights the persistence of contamination in the Doce River basin, with ongoing mineral exploitation and industrial activities contributing to pollution.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalTotal Environment Advances·DateDec 19, 2025
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.

Remote Southern Ocean seabirds study highlights reach of ‘forever chemicals’

Researchers have found a wide range of forever chemicals in seabirds from the remote Southern Ocean, providing evidence for long-range transport and bioaccumulation of PFAS. The study highlights the global reach of these persistent chemicals, which are not easily broken down in the environment.

SourceLancaster University·JournalACS Environmental Au·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 16, 2025

Contaminated bathing water easier to detect

A new method uses machine learning and flow cytometry to detect contaminated bathing water, providing faster and more complete answers on water safety. The method has several advantages, including being open-source and able to detect changes in entire bacterial communities.

SourceLund University·JournalWater Research X·DateDec 15, 2025
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.

PFAS exposure may limit improvements in blood sugar after bariatric surgery

A study published in Environmental Endocrinology found that teens with higher blood levels of PFAS before bariatric surgery had smaller improvements in blood sugar over five years. This could lead to the metabolic benefits of the surgery fading within a decade.

SourceKeck School of Medicine of USC·JournalEnvironmental Endocrinology·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateDec 4, 2025

Five ways microplastics may harm your brain

A new study highlights five ways microplastics can trigger inflammation and damage in the brain, including immune cell activity and oxidative stress. Microplastics weaken the blood–brain barrier, causing immune cells to attack them and leading to further damage.

SourceUniversity of Technology Sydney·JournalMolecular and Cellular Biology·TypeSystematic review·DateDec 4, 2025
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.

Reducing arsenic in drinking water cuts risk of death, even after years of chronic exposure

A 20-year study of 11,000 adults in Bangladesh found that reducing arsenic levels in drinking water was associated with lower mortality rates from heart disease, cancer, and other chronic illnesses. The study provides the first long-term, individual-level evidence that reducing arsenic exposure may lower mortality even among people exp...

SourceColumbia Climate School·JournalJAMA·TypeObservational study·DateNov 17, 2025

Forever chemicals affect the genes of unhatched ducklings

Researchers discover that PFAS can harm ducklings even before they hatch, altering their gene expression and potentially affecting their fat metabolism and immune system. The findings support demands for a blanket EU ban on the substances, which are considered 'forever chemicals' due to their long-term persistence in the environment.

SourceNorwegian University of Science and Technology·JournalEnvironmental Toxicology and Chemistry·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 11, 2025
Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station

Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station offers research-grade local weather data for networked stations, campuses, and community observatories.

FAU’s CAROSEL offers new ‘spin’ on monitoring water quality in real time

Researchers track benthic nutrient fluxes using a new device called CAROSEL, which measures nitrogen released from sediments in real-time. The findings reveal daily rhythms in oxygen fluxes and highlight the importance of understanding sediment-water interactions in managing aquatic ecosystems.

SourceFlorida Atlantic University·JournalLimnology and Oceanography·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 5, 2025

Researchers to test long-term viability of solar panels

Researchers at Binghamton University are testing the long-term stability and environmental effects of perovskite solar cells, a more environmentally friendly option, to prevent lead leakage and pollution. The study aims to improve the durability and recyclability of solar panels, enabling widespread adoption of renewable energy sources.

SourceBinghamton University·DateOct 29, 2025

USC Superfund researchers identify “forever chemical” PFHpA as risk factor for severe liver disease in adolescents

Researchers identified a significant association between perfluoroheptanoic acid (PFHpA) exposure and metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) in adolescents. The study used advanced models to reveal PFHpA's role in disrupting biological pathways, leading to liver damage and inflammation.

SourceKeck School of Medicine of USC·JournalCommunications Medicine·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 26, 2025
Meta Quest 3 512GB

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

Plastic pollution could linger at ocean surfaces for over a century, new research finds

A new model shows that buoyant plastics degrade slowly at the surface, fragmenting into smaller particles over decades. These tiny fragments can then sink to the ocean floor, but it may take more than 100 years for surface plastic waste to disappear.

SourceQueen Mary University of London·JournalPhilosophical Transactions of the Royal Society A Mathematical Physical and Engineering Sciences·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateOct 23, 2025

A new approach to cutting marine plastic pollution

Researchers at NTNU identify main sources of plastic pollution and explore solutions that change production and consumption habits. Measures emphasizing pro-social and pro-ecological values have been found to be effective in bringing about profound changes.

SourceNorwegian University of Science and Technology·JournalPLOS Sustainability and Transformation·TypeContent analysis·DateOct 17, 2025

PFAS detected for first time on Miccosukee Indian reservation: study raises concerns for Everglades water quality

Researchers from Florida International University have detected a dozen different PFAS compounds within the Miccosukee Indian Reservation in the Everglades. The findings raise questions about potential impacts on water quality and ecosystem health, particularly with regards to ongoing Everglades restoration efforts.

SourceFlorida International University·JournalEnvironmental Research·TypeObservational study·DateOct 16, 2025
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.

Centuries of mining turn the mar menor into a reservoir of toxic metals

A study reveals that the Mar Menor lagoon has sediments with excessive levels of lead, arsenic, and other toxic metals accumulated over centuries due to mining activities. The research highlights the ongoing risk these metals pose to aquatic organisms and ecosystems, even after the closure of mines in the 1990s.

SourceUniversitat Autonoma de Barcelona·JournalMarine Pollution Bulletin·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 13, 2025

Global fashion giants unite to combat textile microfiber crisis

Leading fashion brands and textile manufacturers have joined forces to address the microfiber pollution crisis through a comprehensive study. The project, led by Fashion for Good and Northumbria University, tested 24 fabric types and revealed complex challenges within the textile supply chain, including potential contamination levels.

SourceNorthumbria University·DateOct 7, 2025

Alperujo storage times impact final compost yields

Researchers found that short-term alperujo storage (3 months) improves compost yields and reduces greenhouse gas emissions. Phenolic compounds are efficiently removed, making the final product safer for fields.

SourceUniversity of Córdoba·JournalJournal of Environmental Management·TypeMeta-analysis·DateOct 2, 2025

Sea foam could contain more ‘forever chemicals’ than water below, study finds

A study found that sea foam from several beaches in North Carolina's coastal region contain higher levels of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) compared to the water below. Researchers detected PFAS concentrations in sea foam reaching tens to thousands of times higher than in regular seawater.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·DateSep 24, 2025

As pesticides and wildfires rise, kids with cancer need resources

A growing body of research links environmental pollutants to worsened health and shorter life spans in childhood cancer survivors. The study found that only 25% of pediatric oncology providers felt comfortable discussing environmental pollutant impacts with patients.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalCancers·DateSep 16, 2025
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.

Natural microfibers may degrade differently to synthetic materials under simulated sunlight exposure in freshwater and seawater conditions, with implications for how such pollutants affect aquatic life

Researchers investigated how natural microfibers and synthetic materials degrade under simulated sunlight in freshwater and seawater. The study found significant differences in degradation rates between the two materials, with implications for aquatic ecosystems.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS One·DateSep 10, 2025

The chronic risks from single-use plastic water bottles are dangerously understudied, new Concordia research shows

Research by Concordia University finds that individuals ingest tens of thousands of microplastic particles per year from single-use plastic water bottles, which can cause chronic health issues. The study highlights the need for education on the risks of daily plastic bottle use.

SourceConcordia University·JournalJournal of Hazardous Materials·TypeLiterature review·DateSep 9, 2025

Orange rivers signal toxic shift in Arctic wilderness

As Arctic permafrost thaws, geochemical reactions unleash metals like cadmium, harming fish and disrupting ecosystems. The Salmon River's transformation poses indirect threats to Indigenous communities and other species.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 8, 2025
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.

Scientists transform plastic waste into efficient CO2 capture materials

Researchers at the University of Copenhagen have developed a method to convert plastic waste into a climate solution for efficient and sustainable CO2 capture. The new material, BAETA, can absorb CO2 out of the atmosphere efficiently compared to existing carbon capture technologies.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen·JournalScience Advances·DateSep 5, 2025

Global map shows where ocean plastics pose greatest threats

A global assessment reveals that ocean plastics pose ecological risks in areas with dense marine life and pollutants, even in waters with modest plastic levels. The study identifies high-risk zones, including the North Pacific and North Atlantic oceans, where coordinated efforts can substantially lessen threats.

SourceTulane University·JournalNature Sustainability·DateSep 2, 2025
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.

New wastewater tech tackles fatbergs at the source

Researchers from RMIT University have developed a new wastewater treatment system that targets all fat types, including hard-to-remove emulsified fats, and achieves up to 98% fat removal rates in commercial kitchen wastewater. The system combines a redesigned grease interceptor with smart chemical treatment.

SourceRMIT University·JournalACS ES&T Water·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 20, 2025

What’s in your pup’s bowl? Heavy metals, reveals 10-state survey

A recent survey of 178 dogs in 10 states found that two-thirds consume higher-than-recommended levels of heavy metals in their drinking water. The study highlights the need for further research on the long-term health effects of these exposures, particularly in rural areas where private wells are common.

SourcePLOS·TypeObservational study·DateAug 6, 2025

Toxic well water will affect household pets first, new study finds

A new Virginia Tech study reveals that toxic well water primarily affects household pets, with 64% of dog drinking water samples containing high levels of potentially toxic heavy metals. Researchers found a correlation between untreated well water and poor health in dogs, highlighting the need for households to test and treat their water.

SourceVirginia Tech·JournalPLOS Water·DateAug 6, 2025
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

‘Major leap in bioelectronic sensing’: Rice researchers turn bacteria into tiny pollution detectors

Researchers at Rice University have engineered E. coli to act as living multiplexed sensors, detecting multiple environmental toxins simultaneously by converting biological responses into readable electrical signals. The system can detect combined hazards more efficiently and accurately, with potential applications in biocomputing.

SourceRice University·JournalNature Communications·DateJul 29, 2025

Living near St. Louis-area Coldwater Creek during childhood linked with higher risk of cancer from radiation

A study found that children who lived near Coldwater Creek, a Missouri River tributary polluted by nuclear waste, had a higher risk of developing cancer. The researchers estimated that those living less than one kilometer away from the creek had a 44% higher risk of cancer compared to those living more than 20 kilometers away.

SourceHarvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health·JournalJAMA Network Open·TypeObservational study·DateJul 16, 2025

So what do the world’s coastlines look like in 2025?

A new study revisits forecasts made in 2002 about the world's rocky shorelines, finding some threats have materialized while others have not. The researchers highlight the importance of addressing issues like ocean acidification and plastic pollution to protect coastlines.

SourceUniversity of Plymouth·JournalMarine Pollution Bulletin·TypeObservational study·DateJul 14, 2025

Tremendous amount of plastic floats as nanoparticles in the ocean

Researchers estimate 27 million tons of nanoplastics in North Atlantic Ocean, shedding light on the 'paradox of missing plastic'. The discovery highlights the significant amount of plastic debris that has been underestimated and raises concerns about its impact on marine ecosystems.

SourceRoyal Netherlands Institute for Sea Research·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 9, 2025
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.

Underestimated sources of marine pollution

Researchers detected nanoplastic particles smaller than 1 µm in all depths analysed across the 12 measurement sites, with PET, PS, and PVC being the most common types. The study estimates around 27 million tonnes of nanoplastic are stored in the uppermost water layer of the North Atlantic.

SourceHelmholtz Centre for Environmental Research - UFZ·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 9, 2025

Ancient golden silk revived from the Korean sea

A team of Korean researchers has successfully recreated a golden fiber akin to that of 2,000 years ago using the pen shell cultivated in Korean coastal waters. The breakthrough reveals the scientific basis behind its unchanging golden color and demonstrates the potential of eco-friendly materials.

SourcePohang University of Science & Technology (POSTECH)·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateJun 26, 2025
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

Living near an ocean polluted by microplastics may increase cardiometabolic disease risk

A new study published in the Journal of the American Heart Association found that residents in U.S. coastal counties near ocean waters with high concentrations of microplastics are at higher risk for Type 2 diabetes, coronary artery disease, and stroke. The study analyzed data from 152 counties and found a significant association betwe...

SourceAmerican Heart Association·JournalJournal of the American Heart Association·DateJun 18, 2025

Global mercury levels in rivers have doubled since Industrial Revolution

New research from Tulane University finds that global riverine mercury pollution has more than doubled since the pre-industrial era, with primary drivers including wastewater discharge, soil erosion, and industrial activities. This increase poses significant health risks to humans and wildlife through consumption of contaminated fish.

SourceTulane University·JournalScience Advances·DateJun 11, 2025

Study helps pinpoint areas where microplastics will accumulate

A new study by MIT researchers suggests that microplastics are less likely to accumulate in sediment infused with biofilms, which can resuspend particles and carry them away. In contrast, areas of bare sand can become hotspots for microplastic accumulation due to the lack of biofilm.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·DateJun 5, 2025
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.

Portable sensor enables community lead detection in tap water

A new handheld device called E-Tongue can analyze water samples and detect lead contamination, providing users with a color-coded reading and concentration value. The researchers tested the device through a citizen science project across four Massachusetts towns, finding it effective in detecting lead in drinking water.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalACS Omega·DateMay 29, 2025

Huge sea-urchin populations are overwhelming Hawaii’s coral reefs

High levels of pollution and sea-level rise have led to an explosion in sea-urchin numbers, threatening the recovery of Hawaii's coral reefs. The reef in Hōnaunau Bay shows slow growth and high erosion rates, highlighting the need for robust fisheries management.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalPLOS One·TypeObservational study·DateMay 28, 2025