Articles tagged with Climate Change
The global ocean has become more stratified due to global warming, reducing nutrients and oxygen. This increase in stratification affects climate, ecosystems, and the ocean's ability to store carbon, exacerbating global warming.
As temperatures rise, tree swallow populations are shifting their egg-laying dates forward by up to 13 days. This shift is linked to increased risk of mass chick mortality due to reduced aerial insect availability during cold snaps, highlighting the complex impacts of climate change on animal life cycles.
The University of Wisconsin-Madison has officially confirmed the lowest recorded temperature in the Northern Hemisphere, a chilly -93.2 degrees Fahrenheit. This extreme reading was first detected in Greenland in 1991 and has been verified through rigorous review processes by the World Meteorological Organization.
A new method for analyzing soil organic matter can help scientists predict how soils store carbon and how this affects climate change. The study analyzed data from over 40 soils across North America, revealing patterns in chemistry that hold true across climates.
Researchers from University of Exeter argue that current global climate pledges are insufficient due to government support for fossil fuels and destructive policies. They call for a comprehensive global plan with seven recommendations to address the climate crisis.
The new issue of Daedalus explores climate change through personal narratives from scientists, doctors, and social scientists. Witnessing professionals describe their paths into climate-related work and the need to move beyond disciplinary boundaries.
A significant reduction in fruit production by trees has coincided with a decline in the physical condition of fruit-eating forest elephants. The study found an 81% decline in fruit production between 1986 and 2018, alongside an 11% drop in the physical condition of fruit-dependent forest elephants since 2008.
A recent study by Curtin University reveals that approximately a quarter of the world's carnivorous plant species are at risk of extinction. The biggest threats to these unique plants are human activities such as agriculture, mining, and climate change, which can lead to habitat loss and hydrological changes.
Researchers found that polar bears in Kane Basin are healthier due to thinning sea ice, which allows more sunlight to reach the ocean surface. The bears are also traveling further to find food, but their long-term survival is uncertain.
A WPI mathematician has confirmed a 224-year-old conjecture on the formation of solar systems using mathematical equations, revealing that ring emergence is crucial for creation. This research also has implications for climate change and humanity's place in the universe.
A long-term study found that common noctule bat migration patterns change over successive generations, with younger males leading the way in colonizing new hibernacula. This flexibility may enable the species to stay within ideal conditions for reproduction and rearing of young or hibernation.
Researchers found that 50% of plots showed signs of tree regeneration, and water balance projections indicate enough moisture for seedlings. Proper management can prevent severe fires, creating resilient conditions in dry forest areas.
A Rutgers-led team of scientists recommends combining two cutting-edge tools to help understand climate change.
New research shows that changing the relationship between land use and food production is necessary to reverse biodiversity loss. The study suggests that transitioning towards healthier diets, reducing waste, and increasing productivity can help restore ecosystems.
The Antarctic Ice Sheet is projected to account for up to 30 cm of sea level rise between 2015 and 2100, with some scenarios suggesting a partial offsetting effect. The Greenland Ice Sheet may contribute an additional 1.5-14 cm over the same period, depending on greenhouse gas emissions.
Scientific research predicts large increases in mercury concentrations in Yukon River fish and water under high carbon emissions scenarios. For the low-emissions scenario, mercury concentrations are expected to increase by only about 14%.
Researchers from North Carolina State University projected that quaking aspen trees will decline in visibility along three scenic national byways in the Colorado Rockies by 2120 under climate warming scenarios. The study found consistent decreases across all three scenarios, with the greatest declines predicted at lower elevations.
A new mass extinction event was discovered 233 million years ago, which led to the dinosaur takeover of the world. The Carnian Pluvial Episode caused widespread biodiversity loss due to climate change and increased greenhouse gases, but ultimately paved the way for the evolution of modern ecosystems.
Researchers are establishing a global volunteer network to track the abundance of dragonflies and damselflies, crucial indicators of environmental changes in freshwater biodiversity. The network aims to fill gaps in knowledge by collecting standardized data over 10-15 years from citizen scientists worldwide.
New research estimates that mercury concentrations in fish and water of the Yukon River could double by 2100 under a high emissions scenario. If greenhouse gas emissions are not constrained, mercury concentrations may exceed EPA criterion by 2050, with significant impacts for the environment and global climate.
New research reveals that marine animals generally inhabit the maximum range of breathable ocean zones determined by their physiology and oxygen needs. The study warns that climate change will restrict these ranges as warmer waters harbor less oxygen, potentially leading to habitat shifts or oxygen shortages.
A new study published in eLife suggests that rising temperatures may shift the optimal temperature range for West Nile virus transmission in the US. The research found that moderate temperatures are most conducive to viral spread, and extreme temperatures limit transmission in certain areas.
The Smart Efficient Compression, Reliability and Energy Targets (SECRET) project aims to reduce leakages in rotating machinery by 20% and improve efficiency of oil-free screw compressors by 2%. The partnership will also contribute to advances in Industry 4.0 and the European Union's Global Net Zero CO2 emissions directive.
UMass Lowell researchers are studying the relationship between heat waves and droughts in the Northeast, using moisture-tracking techniques and computer-aided modeling. The team hopes to better understand how well they can predict these extreme weather events and their potential impact on climate change.
A recent Oregon State University study found that disease-spreading mosquitoes are more abundant in human-impacted areas than in protected national parks. The study suggests that modifying habitats may be a more effective strategy for reducing disease-carrying mosquito populations.
A Florida State University team recommends classifying algae by DNA and then by ecological traits to improve understanding of algal species. This new approach could help mitigate the effects of algal blooms and coral reef destruction, as well as inform conservation efforts.
A new study reveals that environmental factors drive migration, particularly in regions with middle incomes and agriculture. Climate change impacts vary by hazard type and context, with changing temperatures having the strongest effect.
The Arctic has transitioned into a new climate state due to rapid warming, with sea ice extent dropping by 31% since the 1970s. The study found that even unusually cold years will no longer have the same amount of summer sea ice as in the mid-20th century.
A new study found that ARPA-funded startups filed more patents and achieved higher business success rates than those without such funding. The researchers argue that a UK version of the agency could support energy innovation and help the country close its R&D investment gap.
Researchers have investigated the emergence and development of cracks in glaciers, revealing a feedback process that accelerates fractures and weakening. This process is key to determining the stability of ice sheets and their contribution to rising sea levels.
Research reveals that degradation of the Brazilian Amazon forest has surpassed deforestation in terms of area affected. The study found that between 1992 and 2014, degraded forest cover increased by 29,116 square kilometers compared to the 308,311 square kilometers lost to deforestation.
Researchers warn that climate engineering modelling often produces overly optimistic 'best-case' scenarios, which can influence research, policy, and industry planning. The authors recommend increasing stakeholder input and clearer communication to forestall this trend.
A nationwide survey of land use impacts on water quality in Brazil reveals that agriculture and urbanization are the main culprits behind river pollution. The study found that degradation varies according to scale or dimension used to evaluate it, and that catchment analysis appears to best reflect overall water quality.
A new study has found substantial amplification of the global water cycle, with increased evaporation and precipitation rates, due to changes in ocean salinity. This change is largely driven by human influence and has significant implications for future climate, including more extreme weather events and droughts.
Researchers analyzed isotopic properties of speleothem samples worldwide to understand the Younger Dryas event's mechanisms. The event began at high northern latitudes before spreading globally, but reversed course in Antarctica, taking on La Niña-like characteristics.
A new dynamic mathematical model developed by researchers from the Universitat Autonoma de Barcelona has shown that it can accurately predict the probability of mortality and survival of small species under heat stress. The study's findings suggest that the current standard model subestimates species' vulnerability to climate warming a...
Researchers at the University of Nottingham have discovered a plant protein that controls mineral and water uptake, leading to improved stress tolerance and reduced fertilizer use. This breakthrough has the potential to increase crop yields and food security, particularly for subsistence farmers.
A mathematical model better accounts for temperature impacts from duration of exposure to improve predictions of heat mortality in natural Drosophila populations. The approach captures cumulative effects of thermal stress and is applicable to other small ectotherms.
A new study projects that post-fire recovery will be less likely in the future, with large percentages of Southern Rocky Mountains becoming unsuitable for key tree species. The team's database can help land managers better plan where to invest resources after a fire.
Researchers investigate dynamic water storage in the critical zone, exploring its role in forest ecology, rock chemistry, and water quality. The team aims to predict how climate change affects these interactions, ultimately improving our understanding of the complex relationships within Western ecosystems.
A new version of China's climate system model shows significant improvements in simulating ocean and sea ice trends. The model outperforms previous versions in terms of climate element representation, including long-term trends and climatological patterns.
Climate change may lead to increased sedimentation (39-69%) and higher peak streamflows carrying more pollutants into the Bay-Delta. The added sediment could also support wetland habitats and native species as sea levels rise.
The European Federation for Science Journalism has announced the three Climate Grant winners, with grants totaling 10,500 euros. Klaartje Jaspers and Bellah Zulu's project Biased biomass won 4000 euros, while Natalia Paramonova, Evgenia Zhulanova, and Daria Checalskaia's
A multinational study has overturned a 130-year old assumption about seawater chemistry, finding that the ratios of key elements like calcium, magnesium and strontium vary considerably across the ocean. This discovery challenges past hypotheses and models, requiring scientists to re-examine their understanding of ocean chemistry.
A new study from the University of Leeds and the Danish Meteorological Institute found that ice sheets in Greenland and Antarctica are melting at a rate accelerating faster than expected. If these rates continue, sea levels will rise by an additional 17cm, exposing 16 million people to coastal flooding annually.
African forest elephants' trail networks benefit humans and local communities. Biological anthropology plays a crucial role in conservation by considering human knowledge and needs alongside species protection.
A German-Italian research project analyzed artefacts from the Sesselfelsgrotte cave in Lower Bavaria, finding similarities and differences between various types of knives. The researchers concluded that Keilmesser were a reaction to climate change, developed for their long lifespan and multi-functional use.
A new study reveals that climate change could lead to a shift in malaria transmission patterns across Africa, with southern Africa experiencing increases in suitable areas and West Africa seeing decreases. River corridors are identified as year-round hot spots of malaria transmission.
A new study found that accurately simulating ocean current variations during El Niño events is crucial for reducing climate prediction uncertainty. When models simulate these processes correctly, they show increased asymmetry between El Niño and La Niú, similar to natural climate swings.
A new study found that extreme hurricane rainfall events in the Caribbean are five times more likely in a warmer world, but meeting Paris Agreement goals could reduce this risk by up to half. The research highlights the urgent need to tackle global warming and recommends targeting resilience funding towards the most at-risk areas.
A team led by CSU Assistant Professor Kyle Horton will study the migratory behavior of Mexican free-tailed bats, tree swallows, and purple martins over three years. The project aims to understand the causes of declining populations due to climate change and habitat changes.
A new study has identified major gaps in the international ozone treaty, which must be addressed to avert stronger climate change and serious risks to human health. The treaty's loopholes include unaccounted for CFC and HFC emissions, leakages from old air conditioners, and emissions of nitrous oxide from agriculture.
Researchers have determined that the Last Glacial Maximum was approximately 6 degrees Celsius (11 F) cooler than today. The study's findings provide a better understanding of the relationship between atmospheric carbon dioxide and global temperature, allowing for more accurate climate predictions.
A study found that following the Eatwell Guide diet in the UK can reduce mortality risk by 7% and lower greenhouse gas emissions by 30%. The diet recommends consuming five portions of fruit and vegetables daily, wholegrain carbohydrates, and lean proteins.
A new study reveals that oil and natural gas pipelines are major contributors to carbon emissions, with seven out of eight pipelines being foreign-owned. The study prioritizes climate lawsuits targeting these facilities, which could lead to increased insurance costs for fossil-fuel companies.
A UBC Okanagan researcher has developed an agent-based model to simulate the behavior of coral reefs and identify traits that contribute to their resilience. This will help design reef management and restoration strategies to stem losses and ensure the long-term health of coral ecosystems.
A new study published in Earth System Dynamics reveals that only a minority of the world's large aquifers are depleting, with most experiencing non-linear and irregular trends in groundwater storage. Extreme rainfall events play a crucial role in replenishing groundwater resources in dry environments.
Research from Ghana reveals that lesser-used biochar application methods, such as spot and ring applications, significantly improve cowpea growth and yield. These methods are more effective than traditional broadcast and incorporation in promoting sustainable soil management.
Research reveals climate change is drastically affecting species abundance in the tropics, with 69% of tropical species showing negative responses to temperature increases. This study highlights the urgent need for understanding how species respond to changing climates on a global scale.
Researchers found an increased threat to populated areas from rising water tables and the possibility of flooding in unexpected inland areas. The study indicates that rising sea levels could push freshwater closer to the surface, putting infrastructure at coastal seaports and national airports at risk.