Articles tagged with Climate Change
The SaferPlaces web service uses open data to identify areas at risk and plan protection measures, such as building modifications and new dikes. By mapping hazards and damages, users can simulate the effects of measures on the platform, ensuring user-friendliness and efficiency.
Researchers found that most protected areas have been effective against deforestation, but significant variation exists among them. They estimated that these protected areas avoid the same amount of carbon emissions as 120,000 Europeans per year.
Glaciers in High Mountain Asia are strong sources of carbon, with cryoconite holes emitting CH4 and CO2. Proglacial river runoff can mitigate these effects, but more research is needed to understand the impact on the carbon cycle.
A new study by researchers at the University of Texas at Austin aims to find a balance between protecting society from flooding and preserving environmental and cultural viability in urban river deltas. The tool uses a cost-benefit model to examine how to balance natural function with societal desire for landscape stability.
A new study reveals that autistic personality traits are unrelated to environmental attitudes but can be linked to lower engagement in pro-environmental behaviors. The researchers emphasize the need for practical support, such as adapting cognitive behavioral therapy and early environmental education, to help individuals with autism an...
Researchers observed coral cells engulfing free-living algae in a process that began within minutes, marking the first stages of symbiosis. This study provides new insights into the complex relationship between corals and algae, which is crucial for understanding coral bleaching caused by climate change and pollution.
A new study suggests that Easter Island's demographic collapse did not occur, but rather experienced steady population growth until European contact. The researchers used Approximate Bayesian Computation to analyze radiocarbon dates and environmental changes, revealing that the islanders' resilience strategies were successful despite a...
A new USC study forecasts significant water shortages downstream of the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam, which could reduce Egypt's water supplies by over one-third. The research projects economic losses to agriculture reaching $51 billion, with potential unemployment of 24% and displacement of people.
A new study published in the Journal of Climate found that about 23% of uncertainty in WNPAC projection is attributed to El Nino amplitude change, while 77% comes from non-amplitude change related to El Nino decaying pace. The research highlights the importance of considering other El Nino characteristics in climate system projections.
Researchers mapped extreme snowmelt events across the US over 30 years, finding that unusually warm temperatures drive most cases. Machine learning revealed regional differences in moisture transport, with Pacific Northwest and northeastern US experiencing rain-driven extreme snowmelt.
Research suggests that climate, particularly temperature, drove changes in human body size, while brain size evolved independently. Larger-bodied people tend to live in colder climates today.
Researchers at the University of Exeter discovered that ancient ostrich eggshells from Bundu Farm site reveal evidence of extreme climate change in Southern Africa 250,000 to 350,000 years ago. The findings support other fossil animal bones and suggest a shift from wetland and grassland to arid environments after 200,000 years.
The article discusses how counselors can promote environmental justice during the Anthropocene era. Counselors can use their skills to educate communities on the climate crisis, process environment activists' grief, and advocate for marginalized communities. This framework of environmental justice helps counselors understand the dispro...
Scientists at the University of Plymouth have developed a simple algorithm-based model to predict coastal evolution. The Forecasting Coastal Evolution (ForCE) model accurately forecasts coastline changes over timescales of days to decades and beyond.
The study highlights the alarming loss of Indigenous Peoples' and local communities' knowledge systems, with dramatic social and ecological impacts. The authors emphasize the need for support to sustain these knowledge systems and practices, essential for safeguarding biological and cultural diversity.
Research found that unsustainable irrigation can increase global BECCS potential by 60-71%, but sustainably constrained irrigation only boosts it by 5-6%. The study suggests a reexamination of the role of BECCS in achieving climate goals due to its environmental impacts.
New research suggests abnormal ocean currents, rather than temperature changes, cause the occasional appearance of pelagic red crabs outside their native range. A seawater flow index was created to help researchers detect abnormal currents, providing a tool for understanding climate change and its effects on coastal species.
New Stanford research shows muskrat populations are a bellwether for the health of the Peace-Athabasca Delta, a protected landscape in northeastern Alberta, Canada. The study demonstrates how human-driven changes to water systems and the global climate affect even this most protected ecosystem.
The Mutriku wave power plant has been in operation since 2011 and generates electricity continuously to the grid. A new study found that while wave energy increases due to climate change, the plant's energy production remains constant due to its regulation system.
UD scientists and collaborators issue an urgent call to action on plastics pollution, highlighting the need for a circular lifecycle for plastics. The team proposes new approaches to chemistry, engineering, industrial processes, policy, and global collaboration to address the crisis.
A study by UCL researchers suggests that levelling up access to finance for poorer countries can accelerate the transition to renewable energy, allowing Africa to reach net-zero emissions approximately 10 years earlier than current projections. This would require policy interventions to lower the weighted average cost of capital (WACC)...
Researchers from the University of Adelaide have developed strategies to delay grape ripening and increase flavor potential in Cabernet Sauvignon grapes. By manipulating crop load and irrigation management, they were able to slow down sugar accumulation and improve aroma compounds, colour, and mouthfeel.
A new study suggests that governments must fundamentally change their economic systems to provide decent living standards for all while cutting global average energy use in half. Improving public services, reducing income disparities, and scaling back resource extraction are key strategies.
A study from Flinders University reveals that a common native bee species has flourished since the first land clearances by humans in Fiji. The expansion of Homalictus fijiensis coincides with early human colonization of the Pacific islands, rather than climate change.
Correcting historic sea surface temperatures improves hurricane model accuracy, aligning with observed hurricane frequency variations. This approach provides a more confident basis for predicting the impact of climate change on future hurricane frequency.
Researchers found that warmer nights alter the rice plant's biological schedule, causing hundreds of genes to be expressed earlier or later than usual. This disrupts the finely tuned timing necessary for optimal yield, leading to crop losses.
A new Cal Poly study suggests rattlesnakes will thrive in a warming climate, with preferred body temperatures ranging from 86-89 degrees Fahrenheit. This could lead to longer hunting seasons and reduced energy needs for survival.
A new computer model has been created to understand plant energy storage, with lab experiments confirming its accuracy. The findings could improve crop resilience in challenging environments and help develop new plants for climate change.
Scientists used DNA data and predictive modelling to identify regions where an invasive sea squirt could thrive in South America. The study found that a slight change in currents and sea temperature may lead to the species' expansion across northern Chile, Peru, and Ecuador.
The 70th Lindau Nobel Laureate Meeting has opened with a record number of participants, featuring discussions on topical issues such as future pandemics, gene editing, and climate change. The meeting aims to foster dialogue among scientists from around the world and promote sustainable scientific conduct.
Researchers created a CRISPR-Cas9-based gene drive that cuts and copies genetic elements in Arabidopsis plants, transmitting specific traits from a single parent. This technology could help plants defend against diseases and grow more productive crops, addressing global food security concerns.
The study suggests that revenues from emissions pricing should be distributed according to historical emissions, providing the greatest leeway for a consensual ambitious climate policy. This design can help overcome obstacles such as differing country sizes and wealth, ultimately strengthening EU climate policy.
A large-scale study found that vegetation is becoming increasingly water-limited as global temperatures increase, reducing its ability to absorb atmospheric CO2. This could lead to increased greenhouse gases and a weakening of the land's carbon sink strength.
Researchers from ITP of Chinese Academy of Sciences use water meters to estimate annual total river runoff for 13 major rivers in the region. The study reveals significant regional variations in river runoff, with higher values found in Indian monsoon domain, and shows climate change impacts on snow and glacial melting.
A study by an international consortium reveals the structure and mechanism of a protein that builds and maintains photosynthetic membranes in plants. The research provides new opportunities for engineering plants to be more resistant to extreme environmental conditions, helping to sustain human food supply and combat climate change.
States have inconsistent regulations, making it difficult to control invasive plants. Prohibited plant lists can prevent intentional introductions, but states are not creating these lists proactively. Communication is key to success.
A new study shows that climate change is increasing ozone depletion over the Arctic, contrary to previous assumptions. The researchers found record-low polar vortex temperatures and highest ozone losses on record in 2020, driven by greenhouse gas emissions.
New study reveals climate change intensifies Arctic ozone depletion, putting Europe and North America at risk of increased UV radiation exposure. The expected recovery of the ozone layer may fail unless global greenhouse gases are rapidly reduced.
A survey of English teachers found that over half support teaching children to take a public stand against climate change and break rules to make their point. The majority believe an action-focussed curriculum is necessary, starting with conservation projects in early primary school.
Climate change is expected to suppress the growth of Florida's coral reefs due to their inability to migrate north. The warming seas and increasing frequency of water-cooling cold snaps will make it difficult for corals to adapt and survive, leading to further decline and potentially extinction.
Researchers have developed ultrathin sensors that can monitor plant health without harming them, providing a promising solution for sustainable farming. The sensors use bioimpedance measurements to detect physiological changes in plants, enabling farmers to optimize water, light, and nutrient supply.
A species of butterfly found in Sub-Saharan Africa can migrate thousands of miles to Europe crossing the Saharan Desert in years with favorable weather conditions, increasing understanding of how insects could spread between continents due to climate change.
A nationwide analysis of dragonflies and damselflies in Germany between 1980 and 2016 found both losses and gains, with cold-adapted species declining due to habitat loss and degradation. Meanwhile, warm-adapted species increased, likely due to climate change.
Climate warming has diminished the high-elevation flammability barrier, allowing fires to advance uphill in Western mountains. The area burning above 8,200 feet tripled in just over a decade, with rising temperatures extending fire territory to an additional 81,500 square kilometers.
A study by researchers at the University of Basel found that excess nitrogen deposited into soils via air pollution endangers butterfly diversity in Switzerland. The team analyzed data on plant and butterfly diversity across 383 plots and discovered a clear link between nitrogen intake and reduced vegetation diversity.
A group of women scientists propose changes to the current system, emphasizing equal, diverse, and inclusive mentoring relationships to promote wellbeing and belonging among underrepresented groups. They also advocate for a multidimensional mentorship model that prioritizes mentee wellbeing.
Experts say current approaches to relocating climate-displaced people are woefully inadequate, leading to worsening societal inequities. A new approach is needed, integrating diverse perspectives, knowledge sources, and strategies to ensure successful relocation and community thriving.
Thirty state-of-the-art IPCC-climate models predict varying climates for Europe due to differing simulations of North Atlantic ocean currents. The analysis highlights the importance of incorporating ocean circulation into climate models, suggesting that uncertainties in predictions may be largely dependent on changes to this circulation.
A team of researchers developed an algorithm that can predict when narwhals hunt, opening up new insights into their life and behavior. The algorithm uses acoustic data from clicks and buzzing sounds to map the whales' movement patterns and identify hunting areas.
Researchers from Australian National University warn that climate change may be causing more deaths among Australian marsupials, including the greater glider, due to heat-induced eating habits. The study highlights the importance of protecting food sources and restoring nutrient-rich forests to help these animals survive.
Anthropologists at Binghamton University have received a grant from the National Geographic Society to study ancient Rapa Nui communities' water management techniques. Their research will focus on coastal seeps and inland resources, shedding light on how past populations dealt with freshwater scarcity.
A new study found that between 51-60% of the world's rivers stop flowing periodically, highlighting the need for a paradigm shift in river science and management. Non-perennial rivers provide critical water sources and support biological diversity, but are often overlooked and mismanaged.
Researchers at UCSB's LTER sites investigate the impact of climate change on diverse ecosystems, including kelp forests and coral reefs. Their findings highlight the importance of long-term research in understanding complex relationships between environmental drivers and ecosystem responses.
Scientists extracted two deep ice cores over 80m long from Colle Gnifetti, containing information on the climate and environment of ten thousand years ago. The ice cores will be stored in Antarctica for decades and centuries to come, providing valuable data for scientific advances and political decisions.
Researchers have identified untapped genetic diversity in Vietnamese rice varieties that can provide a source of novel genes for improving agronomic traits. This discovery has the potential to develop 'Green Super Rice' that is more resilient to extreme weather conditions and suitable for growing on marginal lands.
A new study from the University of Florida finds that mosquitoes can adjust to rapid changes in temperature, indicating they may become active year-round. The research suggests that as climate change makes winters warmer, mosquitoes in temperate regions will be well-prepared to be active during those times.
Researchers urge the study of collective behavior to rise to a 'crisis discipline' due to its impact on global crises like pandemics and climate change. Social media platforms prioritize engagement over accuracy and sustainability, posing significant threats to public health and ecological stability.
Researchers reconstruct climate history in Ethiopia for the last 200,000 years, revealing a wet phase that supported human migration to Europe and Asia. The study provides evidence for significant impact on human evolution and mobility.
A new framework for using community science data to monitor global biodiversity change has been developed by California Academy of Sciences researchers. The framework shows that community science data is not only useful, but necessary for uncovering real-time impacts of climate change and biodiversity loss.
Researchers identified 22 invasive plants threatening native species in New England, while 16 also impact agriculture, human health, or the economy. Home gardeners' access to these high-risk species can accelerate their introduction, highlighting the need for proactive management and regulation.