Researchers at UBCO's School of Engineering have developed a new, faster method for analyzing toxic waste materials using fluorescence spectroscopy and convolutional neural networks. This method can detect key toxins such as naphthenic acids in oil sands samples, providing a low-cost alternative to current methods.
SourceUniversity of British Columbia Okanagan campus·JournalJournal of Hazardous Materials·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateMar 21, 2022
A new study by University of Maryland scientists has developed a five-stage scale to track the progression of salt pollution in freshwater streams and rivers. The researchers found that road salts combined with other pollutants create
SourceUniversity of Maryland·JournalLimnology and Oceanography Letters·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 14, 2022
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.
A study published in PLOS Water found that office buildings with low-consumption plumbing may experience chemical and microbiological safety issues due to weekend stagnation. The research highlights the need for regular water testing in commercial buildings, even those designed as 'green' to reduce water consumption.
SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Water·TypeObservational study·DateMar 9, 2022
The Bureau of Reclamation is providing $5.6 million in funding to 15 projects focused on improving desalination and water purification technologies. These advancements aim to expand access to otherwise unusable water resources, addressing the climate crisis and meeting Western communities' needs for a new source of water.
Higher elevation mountain forests are using more water on average during droughts, reducing water availability downstream for cities and wildlife. Researchers found that these forests tend to be located above 3,280 feet and have increased water use due to rising temperatures and changes in tree species composition.
SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalLandscape Ecology·TypeObservational study·DateMar 4, 2022
Apple iPhone 17 Pro
Apple iPhone 17 Pro delivers top performance and advanced cameras for field documentation, data collection, and secure research communications.
Research by Oregon State University scientists has found that tiny tire particles inhibit growth and cause adverse behavioral changes in organisms in freshwater and coastal estuary ecosystems. The findings suggest that even at current environmental levels of tire-related pollution, aquatic ecosystems may be experiencing negative impacts.
SourceOregon State University·JournalChemosphere·DateMar 1, 2022
A global study reveals that freshwater lake ecosystems are being damaged by salt concentrations below government-protective thresholds. The loss of zooplankton triggers a cascade effect causing an increase in algae, potentially altering nutrient cycling and water quality.
SourceUniversity of Toledo·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 21, 2022
A new DNA-based device can detect contamination levels in water, providing a more accurate picture of water quality. The device uses genetic networks to mimic electronic circuits and can detect zinc, lead, and other contaminants at varying concentrations.
SourceNorthwestern University·JournalNature Chemical Biology·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 17, 2022
Swine waste lagoon construction dates have been established for the first time using satellite imagery, providing insights into their environmental impact. The study focused on North Carolina and found that approximately 16% of lagoons were already in place before 1987.
SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalScientific Reports·TypeImaging analysis·DateFeb 14, 2022
A new study from the University of Waterloo provides a roadmap for faster improvements in water quality by tackling nitrogen legacies. The research recommends six steps to address this critical issue, which has persisted for decades due to excess nitrogen fertilizers.
SourceUniversity of Waterloo·JournalNature Geoscience·DateFeb 14, 2022
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 study reveals tradeoff between water quality and emissions on farms, highlighting potential environmental benefits of conservation practices. Researchers found that split nitrogen applications had no impact on nitrous oxide levels, but cover crops increased emissions by spikes in summer.
SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·DateJan 27, 2022
Scientists have discovered characteristic breakpoints that alter pollutant concentrations in rivers, impacting global water security. The research sheds light on the behavior of aquatic pollutants in large river systems, including India's River Ganga.
SourceUniversity of Birmingham·JournalWater Research·TypeObservational study·DateJan 25, 2022
A new analysis reveals that approximately 1.3 million Californians, or nearly 3.5% of the population, rely on domestic wells for their water supply, while 370,000 more may be served by contaminated community water systems. Communities of color are disproportionately affected by drinking water contamination.
SourceUniversity of California - Berkeley·JournalAmerican Journal of Public Health·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJan 11, 2022
Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount
Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount provides precise tracking capacity for deep-sky imaging rigs during long astrophotography sessions.
Despite efforts to control river pollution, lake water quality has not improved as expected in China. Lake restoration and ecological management are key to addressing eutrophication and achieving sustainable development.
SourceScience China Press·JournalNational Science Review·DateDec 31, 2021
Researchers at Skoltech developed an algorithm that aggregates and maps environmental data to predict and visually map the quality of water, soil, or air. The solution uses interpolation to fill gaps in data and produces detailed maps with high resolution.
SourceSkolkovo Institute of Science and Technology (Skoltech)·JournalScientific Reports·DateDec 23, 2021
Marquette University has received a two-year, $3.8 million grant from the U.S. Department of Defense to develop novel technologies for protecting the environment and providing clean drinking water. The 'In Defense of Water' program will focus on four areas: water reuse, disinfection, PFAS removal, and water data fusion.
Researchers analyzed 47,727 lead measurements from 1,094 schools in Massachusetts to identify schools with high lead levels. They found that 12% of fixtures had lead levels above 15 parts per billion, with most problematic fixtures concentrated in just 34% of schools.
SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology Letters·DateDec 15, 2021
A recent study tested various indicators to identify potential sources of wastewater contamination in shellfish farms. The researchers found that using multiple indicators in combination provided a greater potential for source identification and detected seasonal variation in contamination risk.
SourceDauphin Island Sea Lab·JournalEstuaries and Coasts·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateDec 8, 2021
GoPro HERO13 Black
GoPro HERO13 Black records stabilized 5.3K video for instrument deployments, field notes, and outreach, even in harsh weather and underwater conditions.
A study by FAU Harbor Branch reveals that even properly functioning septic systems contribute to nitrogen pollution in the Indian River Lagoon. Groundwater samples showed higher dissolved nutrient concentrations than surface waters, indicating contaminated groundwater as a major source of nutrient loading.
SourceFlorida Atlantic University·JournalMarine Pollution Bulletin·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 2, 2021
Researchers emphasize the need for monitoring drinking water for HIV medications, as they can contaminate rivers and streams through wastewater. The lack of regulation on pharmaceuticals in wastewater treatment plants poses a significant challenge in ensuring safe drinking water.
SourceUniversity of Johannesburg·JournalEnvironmental Nanotechnology Monitoring & Management·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 17, 2021
Researchers found that bacterial communities in streams adjacent to young secondary forests recover to resemble those of mature forest streams within a decade after cattle is removed from the land. This study provides hope for restoring water quality through passive reforestation, which can be crucial for human health and the environment.
SourceSmithsonian Tropical Research Institute·JournalScientific Reports·DateNov 5, 2021
DJI Air 3 (RC-N2)
DJI Air 3 (RC-N2) captures 4K mapping passes and environmental surveys with dual cameras, long flight time, and omnidirectional obstacle sensing.
A University of Cambridge study reveals that periodic caterpillar outbreaks improve lake water quality but increase CO2 emissions by altering nutrient cycling and favouring greenhouse gas-producing bacteria. This phenomenon is likely to worsen as climate change expands the insects' range, threatening northern forests.
SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalNature Communications·DateNov 3, 2021
Researchers create a multiscale model to track water quality indicators like nitrogen and mercury levels, incorporating biogeochemical reactions in microbially-active zones. They also develop 'stretchier' alloys by adding nano structures, which enhance strength and ductility, making them suitable for various applications. Additionally,...
SourceDOE/Oak Ridge National Laboratory·JournalScience·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 1, 2021
Researchers led by NUS found that climate change is increasing fluvial sediment loads in the high mountains of Asia, with implications for hydropower, food, and environmental security. The study reveals that sediment fluxes could more than double by 2050 under an extreme climate change scenario.
SourceNational University of Singapore·JournalScience·DateOct 29, 2021
The study provides a new framework for policymakers to consider drinking water quality data when analyzing environmental justice issues. Communities with higher ratios of Hispanic and/or Black populations were found to have statistically significant increases in cancer risk due to exposure to tap water contamination.
SourceEnvironmental Working Group·JournalInternational Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateOct 6, 2021
Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only)
Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only) delivers reliable low-light performance and rugged build for astrophotography, lab documentation, and field expeditions.
Invasive fish and crustaceans significantly reduce lake organism abundance, degrading water quality. Researchers provide guidance on managing waterbodies to prevent ecosystem collapse.
SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalGlobal Change Biology·DateOct 6, 2021
A new study explores ways to make payments for hydrological services (PHS) programs more effective and financially sustainable in Mexico. Residents are willing to pay for improved water quality, regulated quantity, and biodiversity conservation, highlighting the potential of PHS to enhance ecosystem preservation.
SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalJournal of Environmental Management·TypeSurvey·DateOct 5, 2021
Groundwater recovery time varies by region and human activity, with some areas taking up to 15 years to recharge. Excessive pumping can cause land subsidence, contaminant mobilization, and decreased water quality.
SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalJournal of Hydrology·DateSep 30, 2021
Researchers found fecal contamination in Montana's Absaroka-Beartooth Wilderness Area, primarily attributed to wildlife and pack animals. Human-associated bacteria were detected at lower levels, but not significantly related to landscape or elevation.
SourceElsevier·JournalWilderness and Environmental Medicine·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 22, 2021
Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars
Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars deliver bright, sharp views for wildlife surveys, eclipse chases, and quick star-field scans at dark sites.
A study published in PLOS Biology suggests that microparticle concentrations in lakes are higher than previously reported and can be predicted by surrounding land use. The researchers found that areas with more human activity and lower forest cover had higher microparticle concentrations, while lakes with more active microorganisms had...
SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·TypeObservational study·DateSep 14, 2021
A study using environmental DNA found that mountaintop coal mining impacts 40% fewer species in Appalachian streams. The team detected 28 species of fish in all 93 sampled mined streams, comparable to traditional methods.
SourceDuke University·JournalEcological Applications·TypeObservational study·DateSep 2, 2021
A study found that water dispensers could be a source of organophosphate ester exposure, with OPEs detected in the majority of samples. The researchers estimated daily consumption levels to be below health-risk thresholds, but highlighted the need for future research on suitable tubing materials.
SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology Letters·DateSep 1, 2021
A study by North Carolina State University found that surface waters in eastern North Carolina were more likely to face dual contamination from human and swine waste after Hurricane Florence. The presence of Arcobacter, a pathogen not associated with human or swine fecal markers, was also discovered.
SourceNorth Carolina State University·TypeObservational study·DateAug 24, 2021
New research published in PNAS suggests that community-based monitoring can improve water management in rural Costa Rica by reducing groundwater extraction and improving water quality. The program, which used a smartphone application and WhatsApp, showed modest but significant effects after one year.
SourceUniversity of Maryland Baltimore County·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateAug 24, 2021
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.
A recent study by researchers at the University of Chicago found that hydraulic fracturing is associated with small increases in salt concentrations in surface waters across several shales and many watersheds. The largest impacts occurred during the early phases of production, generating large amounts of flowback and produced water.
Heavy rainfall accelerates radiocesium leaching from forest litter, increasing dissolved cesium in stream water. The study suggests that expansion of the contact area between water and litter due to groundwater table rise is the main factor.
SourceShinshu University·TypeObservational study·DateAug 6, 2021
A recent review from Oregon State University suggests that agricultural pollution is the cause of 48% of water-quality impairment in US surface waters. The study recommends greater buffer zones around bodies of water and more consistent enforcement of water protection regulations to reduce pollution.
SourceOregon State University·JournalWater·TypeLiterature review·DateJul 29, 2021
Researchers find constructed wetlands are most cost-effective way to reduce nitrate and sediment loads in large streams and rivers. Wetlands slow down water and contain vegetation that processes nutrients, removing excess nitrates from the water.
SourceUniversity of Kansas·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 5, 2021
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.
Researchers at Tel Aviv University found that water generated from air in urban areas complies with drinking water standards. The study showed that wind direction affects water quality and identified distant sources of air pollution in the water.
SourceTel-Aviv University·JournalThe Science of The Total Environment·DateJun 22, 2021
Researchers from the University of Liège found that Lake Victoria's phytoplankton biomass decreased by seven times since the 1990s, while nutrient levels remained stable. Climate conditions, including wind intensity, significantly impact phytoplankton growth and food chain dynamics.
SourceUniversity of Liège·JournalFreshwater Biology·DateJun 18, 2021
Researchers developed an analytical model to predict contaminant spreading in fractured porous media, considering geological and physical parameters. The model can help assess the risks associated with waste disposal facilities and chemical spills, enabling informed decision-making for public health and resource allocation.
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.
Cleanup efforts can restore affected streams to near natural conditions within 10-15 years, with common responses seen despite differing aquatic life and toxic metals. Shared feeding habits and behavioral characteristics unified how stream invertebrates responded to alleviation of metal pollutants.
SourceUniversity of California - Santa Cruz·JournalFreshwater Science·DateMay 4, 2021
A recent study found that Flint adults suffered a range of adverse physical and mental health symptoms, including skin rashes, hair loss, depression, anxiety, and PTSD, linked to the water crisis. Black residents were particularly affected, with higher rates of reported symptoms.
SourceCornell University·JournalJournal of Urban Health·DateApr 15, 2021
The University of Maryland examined green infrastructure adoption in Tucson, Arizona, revealing the role of policy entrepreneurship and interest groups in its trajectory. The study found that a culture of water ethics, known as One Water, drives sustainability efforts in the city.
SourceUniversity of Maryland·JournalJournal of Environmental Policy & Planning·DateApr 7, 2021
Researchers at Shinshu University developed an affordable portable sensor using lanthanide metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) to detect fluoride levels in drinking water. The device is compatible with local populations and can be produced locally, aiming to improve access to safe water and sanitation for all
SourceShinshu University·JournalChemistry - A European Journal·DateApr 2, 2021
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.
Researchers from McGill University warn of worsening water scarcity in rural Alaska due to climate change. Households often rely on rainwater catchment and grey water recycling, but affordability remains a significant issue, with costs exceeding household income.
SourceMcGill University·JournalEnvironmental Management·DateMar 25, 2021
Research published in Environmental Toxicology and Chemistry shows a sustained 3.8% annual decline in PBDE concentrations in bald eagle nestlings' blood samples across Minnesota and Wisconsin. The findings are instructive for regulators to set protective levels for wildlife and fish consumption advisories for humans.
SourceSociety of Environmental Toxicology and Chemistry·JournalEnvironmental Toxicology and Chemistry·DateMar 10, 2021
A long-term collaboration between scientists and citizen volunteers has documented nitrogen pollution's effects on marine life in Buzzards Bay. The data has informed policies to improve Bay health, with a focus on upgrading wastewater treatment plants.
SourceMarine Biological Laboratory·JournalScientific Data·DateMar 9, 2021
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.
Researchers found a strong correlation between stream conditions and human demographics, particularly along racial lines. Stream quality is linked to mortality rates and cancer rates, highlighting the need for environmental justice. Understanding how people interact with nature is crucial to drawing conclusions about health outcomes.
SourceVirginia Tech·JournalEcological Indicators·DateMar 5, 2021
A new study found that Europeans spend an average of £35 per trip to visit water bodies, with a typical family making 45 trips annually. Poor perceived water quality can result in significant losses, with over €100 billion in annual costs.
SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalThe Science of The Total Environment·DateMar 1, 2021
A new study reveals a causal link between the decline of insectivorous birds and poor water quality, driven by human disturbance and pollution. The analysis shows that emergent insects, which serve as an important food source for birds, are highly sensitive to water pollution.
SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Ecology and Evolution·DateFeb 26, 2021
A University of Texas at Arlington assistant professor is leading a study on making 'farm to table' more sustainable by examining peri-urban farming in central Iowa. The goal is to produce 50% of Des Moines residents' nutritional needs and reduce environmental impact.
A 100-year record of water quality trends in the lower Mississippi River was reconstructed by LSU Professor R. Eugene Turner, revealing significant improvements in bacterial concentrations and oxygen content after the Clean Water Act went into effect.
SourceLouisiana State University·JournalAMBIO·DateFeb 8, 2021
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.
Researchers found improved estuarine water quality in the Choptank River, with increased dissolved oxygen, clearer waters, and reduced algae blooms. Local actions, such as upgrades to wastewater treatment plants, contributed to these gains, while agricultural inputs appeared limited.
SourceUniversity of Maryland Center for Environmental Science·JournalEstuaries and Coasts·DateJan 26, 2021
The study presents a modeling framework that accurately predicts water quality at beaches after only a day or two of frequent water sampling. This approach could be used to monitor unmonitored coastal areas, protecting the well-being of beachgoers and thriving ocean economies worldwide.
SourceStanford University·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·DateJan 21, 2021
WVU is launching a three-year drinking water testing and community engagement program to educate West Virginians about safe drinking water. The program will focus on several counties, providing free drinking water tests and support for interpreting results.
A new international study reveals that collecting drinking water can cause serious injury, with 13% of respondents reporting an injury while fetching water. Women are twice as likely to be hurt as men, highlighting the social and gender inequities of this hidden global health challenge.
SourceUniversity of East Anglia·JournalBMJ Global Health·DateNov 4, 2020
Researchers found that recycled wastewater achieved the best overall results for crop development, yield, and water productivity. Deficit irrigation strategies at 80% capacity also performed well, ensuring maximum water efficiency while maintaining excellent crop growth and yield levels.
SourceUniversity of South Australia·JournalAgriculture·DateOct 29, 2020
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.
A study presented at the 2020 GSA Annual Meeting reveals that floating gardens can have a positive impact on water quality. The research found modest but definitive improvement in nutrient levels, including a 1% decrease in nitrate levels downstream of the garden.
Researchers investigated urban grime samples from US cities, revealing that it absorbs sunlight, which can speed up or slow down chemical reactions affecting air and water quality. The study found differences in ion levels between North American and European cities.
SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalACS Earth and Space Chemistry·DateSep 30, 2020