Articles tagged with Climate Change
A new computer algorithm developed by University of Oxford scientist Samar Khatiwala can drastically reduce the spin-up time of Earth System Models, enabling researchers to investigate subtle changes in model parameters and define uncertainty more accurately. This breakthrough could lead to better predictions of future climate change a...
A new study led by Harvard researchers found that the EPA underestimates methane emissions from landfills and urban areas, with emissions being on median 77% higher than estimated. The team's high-resolution map of methane emissions highlights the importance of pinpointing sources of these emissions.
A study by Columbia University's Mailman School of Public Health found that certain regions in NY State, including Queens and the Bronx, were more severely impacted by severe weather-driven power outages. The study analyzed hourly power outage data from 2017 to 2020 and found that rural areas were affected for longer periods than cities.
A new study found that massive flood basalt volcanism drove mass-extinction and disturbance, while extreme climate change and Hg-pollution continued to stress plants long after volcanic activity had ceased. The results show that ferns were robust enough to continue thriving despite mercury poisoning.
Researchers found that chatbots like ChatGPT can provide accurate information on climate change-related topics, but not all responses are reliable. The study compared the chatbots' answers to hazard risk indices generated by the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change and found more accuracy with tropical storms than droughts.
Research reveals invasive termites could soon invade cities in temperate zones due to climate change and urbanization. The study highlights the need for strict termite control measures to protect homes and infrastructure.
Researchers created new maps that accurately describe phosphorus levels in Amazonian soil using artificial intelligence, revealing the region's low concentration of the mineral. This information is crucial for understanding how tropical forests will react to climate change.
A new study establishes official climate divisions in Hawaii, improving climate research and forecasting. Chronic pain sufferers who spend time outdoors experience stronger weather-based effects, while lightning-initiated wildfires are responsible for more than half the acres burned in the contiguous United States.
Experts argue that voluntary corporate emissions targets are not enough to create real climate action, as they may favor larger existing companies and hinder innovation. The authors suggest updating regulations to improve corporate climate ambition.
Research finds that the Arctic warming is causing a decline in dust levels across India, the Persian Gulf Coast, and the Middle East. The study suggests that addressing dust reduction should be done in tandem with efforts to curb emissions and mitigate climate change.
Long-term research reveals herring arrive at least two weeks earlier in the Wadden Sea due to climate change. The consistent measurement approach allowed scientists to detect this change over a period of over 60 years.
Researchers at Linköping University discovered a specific reaction called oxidative dearomatisation that transforms biomolecules into millions of diverse molecules, making organic matter resistant to degradation. This process explains the substantial organic carbon sinks on our planet, reducing atmospheric carbon dioxide levels.
Using AI software called SLEAP, scientists at Salk Institute are designing climate-saving plants with optimized root systems that can store more carbon. This approach enables researchers to analyze plant features and connect desirable traits to targetable genes, accelerating the development of carbon-capturing plants.
Researchers found proactive, targeted, sustained management of Crown-of-Thorns starfish can safeguard reefs. This approach may be crucial in protecting the Great Barrier Reef from the impacts of climate change.
Researchers developed a high-resolution lidar technique that can measure cloud droplet number concentrations remotely. The device provides unprecedented fine-scale structure at the base of clouds, enabling scientists to gain insight into aerosol-cloud interactions and their impact on climate.
Researchers found that human-induced fluid fluxes in the deep subsurface are higher than natural rates, posing environmental impacts. The study highlights the need to manage the subsurface responsibly for a green transition and sustainable future.
Climate change is exacerbating inequalities and insecurity among migrant women and girls, who account for 80% of all climate displacement. A new international legal framework is needed to address these issues and promote gender-sensitive policies and legislations.
Research found that male spear squid's mating tactic is determined by their birthdate, with earlier-born squids adopting a 'consort' strategy and later-born squids using 'sneaking' tactics. This study suggests that environmental conditions at birth may impact growth trajectory and reproductive success.
A new study finds that warming climate is causing a doubling of copper, zinc, and sulfate concentrations in metal sulfide-rich watersheds in Colorado's mountains. The greatest increases are seen at high altitudes, where natural chemical weathering of bedrock is the source of rising acidity and metals.
A University of Adelaide study found that climate change is helping tropical fish species invade temperate Australian waters. The warming current keeps baby fish warm, increasing their survival chances. As temperatures rise, these tropical fish will eventually grow to their full size and compete with native fish for resources.
Four Mason researchers are partnering with community stakeholders to create a transformative model for research translation, leveraging higher education resources to address climate change resilience. The project aims to develop sustainable and equitable communities across Virginia, utilizing $5.54 million in NSF funding.
A Curtin University study found that breeding less-flatulent cows and restoring agricultural land can significantly reduce methane emissions from Australia's beef and dairy sectors. Researchers identified several strategies to lower emissions, including altering breeding objectives and improving wastewater management.
Climate scientists predict a 7 in 10 chance of record-breaking temperatures and humidity in the tropics, threatening humanitarian aid and medical care. El Niño's impact on tropical heat and humidity is expected to compound the effects of global warming, leading to extreme humid heat stress.
A new study reveals that climate change could lead to a significant global GDP loss of up to 10% if the planet warms by +3ºC, highlighting the substantial costs of inaction.
Researchers analyzed the last ice age to better understand the relationship between CO2 and global temperature. The study finds that the absolute worst-case scenario is unlikely, reducing the estimated warming from doubling CO2 by a full degree.
The study projects significant economic losses globally, particularly in the tropics, with countries least responsible for climate change facing 60% greater income loss. A transition to renewable energy is crucial to mitigate catastrophic consequences and stabilize the planet's temperature.
Researchers analyzed modern and historic mussel shells to investigate the impact of climate change on ecologically and commercially important mollusks. They found that shells collected today are significantly more porous than those collected in the past, suggesting increases in temperature led to increased porosity.
A new scientific review published in Sustainable Production and Consumption explores how to accurately assess the carbon footprint of coffee farming. The study provides guidance on measuring green coffee's environmental impact, including identifying representative measurements and applying land use change modeling.
A new study found that 19 out of 34 countries failed to fully meet their 2020 climate commitments set in Copenhagen 15 years ago. The study highlights the challenges countries face in reducing emissions while maintaining economic growth, particularly for those unable to meet their targets.
A new study by the Complexity Science Hub demonstrates how climate policies can be implemented with minimal economic damage. The researchers used a data set from Hungary to examine what would happen if certain companies were forced to cease production in various scenarios aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions by 20%.
A study by MLU found that ecosystems with diverse plant mixes can regulate up to 5% of regional climate, while plant traits like leaf thickness affect climate. The research highlights the complex relationship between plants and climate, emphasizing the need for biodiversity in nature conservation.
A recent study by University of Hawaii at Manoa researchers highlights the hidden threat of global underground infrastructure vulnerability to sea-level rise. Shallow and saltier groundwater exacerbates corrosion and failure of critical systems such as sewer lines, roadways, and building foundations in cities worldwide.
A University of Melbourne expedition revealed that wind is a key cause of colossal rogue waves. The team's observations confirmed theories and provided critical information for future rogue wave prediction models.
Rising water levels in East Africa's soda lakes are reducing the main food source for lesser flamingos, leading to declining populations. The birds may be pushed into new unprotected areas in search of food, threatening their survival.
New research by Bangor University reveals that summer storms help maintain healthy oxygen levels in deep waters around the UK. The study shows that oxygen mixing can slow the development of a summer oxygen deficit, improving ocean health.
A study found an association between climate change and stroke deaths, with most strokes linked to lower-than-optimal temperatures. The research highlights the need for further investigation into the impact of temperature changes on stroke and potential health policies to address climate-related health inequalities.
A new study found that climate change has led to changes in ant species in Gregory Canyon, Colorado, with some species expanding their habitats and others becoming less widespread. The research suggests that these changes could have implications for ecosystem stability and biodiversity.
The subtropical westerly jet has been shifting northward under global warming, with research suggesting that temperature changes are the primary driver. According to a new study, about 72% of the jet's northward movement is due to changes in temperature, while eddy-driven effects account for around 28%.
Climate change causes melting of ice sheet, resulting in loss of about 5,000 meteorites per year. Researchers call for urgent action to preserve the scientific value of meteorites and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
Deeper areas of the Great Barrier Reef are insulated from harmful heatwaves due to separation between warm surface water and cooler deeper water. However, this protection will be lost if global warming exceeds 3°C above pre-industrial levels, threatening coral mortality and reef collapse.
Researchers analyze degrowth scenarios to reduce emissions, highlighting the need for lower energy demand and technological advancements. The study suggests that fast emissions reductions are possible even with reduced or zero economic growth, but also raises concerns about sociocultural feasibility.
A recent study reveals that climate warming is causing the rapid disappearance of Antarctic meteorites, with up to three quarters lost by the end of the century. Scientists estimate that around 300,000 meteorites remain at the surface, but are losing them at a rate of 5,000 per year.
A new study from the University of Illinois Chicago found that Americans are poor at identifying conspiracy theories when they personally believe in them. Despite this, the study's author argues that recognizing the prevalence of conspiracy theories can help alleviate feelings of isolation and disconnection.
A study from Colorado State University explores how human activity is altering the atmospheric water cycle, leading to changes in precipitation distribution and cloud formation. The research uses science fiction narratives to imagine possible futures and spark conversations around water management policies.
A scientific review found only 128 studies investigating inter-connected drivers across infectious disease spread, biodiversity loss and climate change. Researchers highlight the need for interdisciplinary collaboration to identify win-win-win solutions and avoid unintended consequences.
Despite being in place to rebuild fish populations, marine protected areas have flatlined or declined adult fish populations. Strong enforcement and climate-friendly design are crucial for their success.
A Bay Area monitoring network has recorded a small but steady decrease in CO2 emissions, primarily due to the adoption of electric vehicles, which translates to a yearly drop in vehicle emission rates. However, to meet California's ambitious carbon reduction goals, the yearly decrease needs to be much greater.
Researchers estimated that recreation visits to Yellowstone produce over one megaton of carbon emissions per year, with an average of 479 kilograms attributable to each visitor. Despite this, the park's ecosystems still pull in around 1.5 megatons of carbon from the atmosphere each year.
The study emphasizes the urgent need for a just and sustainable future, highlighting the interconnectedness of environmental degradation, climate change, and socio-economic inequality. The authors advocate for a global cultural shift that prioritizes kinship with nature and communal well-being to avoid devastating consequences.
A recent study from the University of Florida found that companies ignoring climate risks tend to face market penalties, whereas those proactively managing risks fare better. The research analyzed textual data from nearly 5,000 US public companies and discovered a costly divide between proactive and non-proactive firms.
The review highlights major impediments to sustainability, including industrial capitalism and fossil fuel use. The authors propose a radical shift in values, supported by education, policy, economic incentives, and technological innovation.
New research from ANU and other institutions predicts Australia will experience megadroughts lasting over 20 years, with consequences exacerbated by climate change. The study also found that 20th-century droughts in southwestern and eastern Australia were longer on average than pre-industrial times.
Research on South Georgia reveals that invasive species are colonizing newly exposed ground as glaciers retreat due to climate change. This process allows exotic plants and animals to rapidly adapt and spread across the island.
Researchers developed a model predicting how changes in anvil cloud area affect global warming, confirming its effectiveness and reducing uncertainty. However, the brightness of clouds remains understudied and is a key obstacle to predicting future global warming.
A recent study suggests that global natural vegetations commonly match with their ecotopes, influenced by varying climate. Drastic fluctuations of temperature and precipitation may result in remarkable conversions among natural vegetations, especially in northern latitudes and high elevations.
A new study reveals that the Ross Ice Shelf, the largest ice shelf in Antarctica, moves 6-8 centimeters once or twice a day due to slip events triggered by the Whillans Ice Stream. This movement has significant implications for understanding the stability of Antarctica's ice shelves and potential icequakes.
Researchers from Kyushu University found that ocean-atmosphere coupling enhances teleconnection patterns, leading to more meandering jet streams and extreme weather events. The study highlights the significance of extratropical ocean-atmosphere interactions in climate variability.
The UK's 2022 drought, the worst since 1976, emphasized the importance of early mitigation measures due to its rapid onset and extensive impacts on water resources, wildlife, and people. Improved monitoring and forecasting systems can help prevent similar extreme weather events in the future.
The MIT-designed 'architected' reef could dissipate more than 95% of incoming wave energy using a fraction of the material needed, reducing erosion and flooding. The cylindrical structure's unique design leverages turbulence to efficiently break waves, making it a potential solution for coastal protection in various water conditions.
A new study predicts that Australia's soil will become a net emitter of carbon dioxide, releasing more CO2 into the air than it absorbs. This could account for 8.3% of current emissions and worsen climate change unless farming methods are improved.