Articles tagged with Climate Change
Heat- and cold-related mortality burden in the US increased significantly between 2000 and 2020, with temperature extremes contributing to excess deaths. The study found that geographic location, cause of death, and demographic factors played a crucial role in differential vulnerability to temperature-related health risks.
The European Research Council (ERC) has awarded an €8.33 million Synergy Grant to a five-year project led by Professors Jun Borras, Esteve Corbera, Ian Scoones, and Anna Tsing. The 'Land and Life in the Anthropocene' project aims to reshape landscapes for more-than-human life through innovative framework and connected approaches.
A recent study found that the Asian summer monsoon activity in June 2021 actually exacerbated the intensity of the heatwave, rather than cooling it down. The study suggests that this occurred due to an anomalously strong Pacific jet stream and specific background atmospheric circulation.
Contrails predominantly form within existing ice clouds, with over 80% of persistent contrails occurring within natural cirrus clouds. This has significant implications for climate impact, as artificial clouds can contribute to warming or cooling depending on their environment.
The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (HKUST) has launched the International Coordination Office for Urban-PREDICT, a flagship initiative of the United Nations' World Meteorological Organization. The project aims to develop cutting-edge urban-scale hazard prediction and early warning systems to help cities better anticipat...
A University of Houston biologist has received a $2.16 million federal grant to study how some coastal frogs survive in salty environments. The research could reveal how cells cope with salt stress and have implications for understanding the health risks of high-salt diets in humans.
Researchers found that elevated CO2 levels can cause leaf temperatures to rise by up to 1.3°C in forests, with a greater impact during extreme heatwaves. This change is likely caused by reduced transpiration and could have significant effects on the water cycle globally.
New research suggests that ocean turbulence and horizontal stirring will dramatically increase in the Arctic and Southern Oceans due to human-induced Global Warming. The study uses ultra-high-resolution simulations to investigate how mesoscale horizontal stirring (MHS) responds to warming, revealing a pronounced future intensification ...
A global study of participants from six countries found that addressing psychological distance and the threat to one's way of life are most effective interventions in boosting motivation for environmental efforts. The study suggests that making climate action a patriotic duty can increase willingness to exert physical effort.
A new study shows that reducing air pollution has decreased the brightness of marine clouds, leading to accelerated warming. Scientists attribute 70% of this change to aerosols, and researchers are exploring ways to make clouds shinier without polluting the air.
The ITU delegation will work with governments and private-sector leaders to leverage digital transformation as a catalyst for climate solutions. The Green Digital Action initiative aims to address the sector's environmental impact through practical tools and tangible results.
A survey by Göttingen University found that consumers overestimate the environmental benefits of locally sourced food, while underestimating the advantages of imported goods. This misjudgment can lead to environmentally unfriendly choices.
A new University of California, Davis study finds that drought in California pushes the price of water from rivers, lakes, and reservoirs up by $487 per acre-foot, more than triple the cost during an average wet year. Managing groundwater and surface water together could keep water prices steady and support the state's economy.
A team of researchers, including URI climate scientist Ambarish Karmalkar, used interactive modeling to predict the impact of Antarctic ice sheet meltwater discharge on climate and sea levels. Their findings show that while cold Antarctic meltwater will slow human-induced warming, it also causes uneven sea level rise and significant cl...
Experts warn that climate change and conflict have synergistic effects, leading to more severe and complex outcomes. Strengthening health systems is key to reducing vulnerability and supporting climate adaptation.
A new study found that climate intervention strategies like Stratospheric Aerosol Injection (SAI) are ineffective in stabilizing growing conditions for coffee, cacao, and grapes. The study revealed that SAI only brought down temperatures but failed to manage unpredictable rainfall and humidity, leading to inconsistent crop yields.
The Crete Declaration outlines how scientific cooperation can be transformed into actionable policy and robust innovation. It aims to strengthen Europe's resilience and global leadership by sharing data and expertise, developing innovative solutions, and promoting evidence-based policies.
A landmark study by Swansea University reveals the Hektoria Glacier lost nearly half its length in two months during 2023, a pace similar to the end of the last ice age. The rapid retreat was boosted by the shape of the land beneath it, leading scientists to identify vulnerable glaciers and prioritize their monitoring.
Researchers found that small mountain ponds in the Andes can release large amounts of greenhouse gases, contradicting past assumptions. The study's findings highlight the importance of studying small aquatic systems and their impact on global carbon balance.
Researchers discovered a gene variant, DsCEN/2, that determines wood pink's flowering time and growth. The warm allele delays flowering and encourages general plant growth, while the cold allele controls early flowering at high altitudes.
A research team from Peking University found that hailstorms in China have surged since the Industrial Revolution, driven by human-driven climate warming. They analyzed 2,890 years of historical records and data from over 2,000 weather stations to identify a significant increase in hailstorm days after 1850.
Scientists propose 'Environmental Catalytic Cities' with self-purification function to remove air pollutants, using stable and green catalytic materials. This technology could mitigate urban air pollution without extra energy consumption.
Scientists at UC Riverside are using advanced technology to understand how corals regain life-giving algae after suffering from heat stress. By studying the cellular and genetic mechanisms of algae reestablishment, researchers aim to develop practical tools to help reefs survive ocean warming.
A researcher at the University of Kansas has created a comprehensive map of US air conditioning usage, revealing regional disparities in access to cooling systems. The dataset provides valuable insights for public health officials, urban planners, and policymakers to identify areas lacking adequate cooling and inform energy efficiency ...
The Lancet Countdown report links climate change to violence and community health, emphasizing the need for social and economic changes to prevent conflict. Strengthening food systems and ensuring emergency responses can reduce grievances and protect healthcare workers.
Researchers evaluate ways to redesign land use and nature conservation using integrated approaches to meet ecological, social, and economic goals. Multifunctional landscapes can promote biodiversity, food production, climate regulation, and human well-being.
Research by Dr. Dorothy Vesper and her team found that abandoned coal mines can transport CO2 from bedrock to the atmosphere through unremediated discharge. The mine waters, loaded with sulfuric acid, break down carbonate rocks releasing ancient CO2 that then converts to CO2 or other forms of carbon in the water.
A new study from Linköping University finds that wastewater treatment plants emit significantly more greenhouse gases than previously thought. Drones measured methane and nitrous oxide emissions at 12 Swedish treatment plants, revealing a significant discrepancy between estimated and actual emissions.
Scientists will study moisture-driven mechanisms of ice sheet growth during the Miocene Climatic Optimum, a warmer climate period. The team aims to understand how increased moisture transport affects ice accumulation and mitigate sea level rise.
Researchers have discovered that extended periods of high stress in wheat crops can lead to iron deficiency and stunted growth. By reducing iron deficiency with a synthetic organic molecule called PDMA, plants are able to improve photosynthesis and biomass under heat stress conditions.
Researchers develop distribution-type membrane reactors for efficient carbon dioxide methanation. The study demonstrates the advantages of this approach in controlling reaction rates and temperature profiles. High thermal conductivity membranes produce more methane with selectivity, and their use can accelerate a carbon-neutral society.
A UAlbany researcher is leading a $1.2 million NSF project to integrate climate records from stalagmites, corals, lake sediments, and tree rings to understand past changes in monsoon rainfall patterns. The study aims to improve decadal predictions and risk management for societies vulnerable to climate change.
Researchers identified AMO as key driver of compound hot drought events in Northern East Asia, with periods of weakening and strengthening linked to changes in climate. The study provides a new physical perspective for understanding variability in the region's hot droughts and offers insights for improving decadal climate prediction.
A new report published in BioScience reveals Earth's climate crisis is accelerating at an alarming rate, with 22 of 34 planetary vital signs now at record levels. The study emphasizes that climate change mitigation strategies are available and urgently needed to limit warming.
Research highlights the challenges of maintaining fat bike trails due to climate disruption and volunteer burnout. The study calls for seasonal strategies to distribute workload, create binational events, and implement recognition programs.
Scientists at UC Davis have discovered a new species of trapdoor spider, Aptostichus ramirezae, in California's coastal sand dunes. The study reveals that what was thought to be one species is actually two, highlighting the need for conservation efforts to protect habitats shrinking due to climate change and human development.
The report highlights 22 vital signs at record levels, including surface temperature and ocean heat content. It proposes high-impact strategies to mitigate the climate crisis, such as transitioning to renewable energy and protecting ecosystems, which can remove up to 10 gigatonnes of carbon dioxide emissions per year.
A new study finds that electric vehicles outperform gasoline cars in lifetime environmental impact, with a reduction in cumulative CO2 emissions after two years of use. The transportation sector accounts for 28% of US greenhouse gas emissions and adopting electric vehicles can improve climate and air quality.
The Lancet Countdown report reveals that the world is facing unprecedented levels of health threats due to climate change, with millions of lives lost unnecessarily. The report calls for urgent action to limit future harm by prioritizing human health in policy decisions.
New research reveals that prolonged accumulation of rain over several days, fueled by mountains blocking moisture from the Adriatic Sea, causes extremely rare floods. The study identifies a 'cul-de-sac' effect, where stationary cyclones channel humid air toward vulnerable regions, increasing flood risk.
The EU-funded SpongeBoost project invites applications for its 'SpongeBooster of the Year' award, recognizing initiatives that strengthen natural water retention and climate resilience. Eligible projects focus on outdoor restoration and rewetting activities in eligible countries.
A new study reveals that climate change is driving many native Australian reptiles toward extinction. The research uses fossil evidence and genetic data to show how the endangered Australian Mountain Dragon has responded to major environmental changes in the past.
Researchers warn that global warming breaching 1.5°C could create a vicious cycle where dealing with climate impacts hinders action to tackle the underlying problem, leading to 'derailment'. The report highlights the need for a strategy to navigate this 'climate storm' and avoid derailment.
The Lancet Countdown report reveals record-breaking health threats from climate change, including heat-related mortality and wildfire smoke. The report warns that fossil fuel addiction and adaptation delays are responsible for devastating health harms, while clean energy and sustainable diets can reduce pollution and save lives.
A major study published in the European Respiratory Journal found that heatwaves increase the risk of moderate-to-severe obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA) by 13% during peak heatwave periods. The risk is higher when humidity is also high, with a 1.1% increase for every 1°C rise in nighttime temperature.
The study found that about 70% of Kansas counties have some form of regulations, with 40% having enabling regulations to accommodate wind development. Counties in western and southern parts of the state tend to have more restrictive regulations, while rural areas with agricultural economies are more likely to have enabling regulations.
The global construction sector's carbon footprint is projected to double by 2050, driven by cement, steel, and brick emissions. A material revolution is needed to reduce reliance on these materials and explore low-carbon alternatives.
Researchers at Kyushu University found that rising CO2 levels in the atmosphere may lead to disruptions in shortwave radio communications, including systems used for air traffic control and maritime communication. The ionosphere's cooling due to global warming causes a decrease in air density and accelerates wind circulation.
New research shows that near-term mitigation could spare future generations around 0.6 meters of sea-level rise caused by emissions between 2020 and 2090 following current policies. The study provides a direct link between today's policy choices and sea levels hundreds of years from now.
A new study published in Scientific Reports reveals how virtual reality can close the distance between people and climate change-driven damages in faraway places. Participants who experienced VR experiences developed stronger feelings of attachment and concern for the places they visited, leading to increased motivation for constructiv...
A new study documents the functional extinction of Acropora corals from Florida's Coral Reef following a record-setting marine heatwave in 2023. The heatwave caused catastrophic mortality rates, leading to a collapse of ecological function and marking what scientists call a functional extinction.
Climate models oversimplify the role of calcifying plankton in capturing and cycling carbon, potentially underestimating the ocean's capacity to respond to climate change. Ignoring these organisms' diversity risks oversimplifying how the ocean responds to climate stressors.
A 30-year study in southern Sweden finds that rising spring temperatures have doubled the incidence of avian malaria, with a specific period from May 9 to June 24 being particularly critical. The researchers believe that warmer years trigger blood-sucking insects to seek out nests, allowing parasites to thrive and spread disease.
A study finds that meltwater from a rapidly retreating glacier in Alaska contained lower concentrations of essential micronutrients like iron and manganese. This could alter the role glaciers play in delivering nutrients to the ocean, with significant implications for marine ecosystems and fisheries.
Genetic analysis reveals clear differentiation between Japanese and Taiwanese hinoki cypress, with divergence occurring 1 million years ago. The study highlights the need for revised classification systems based on genetic regional characteristics to preserve local genetic integrity.
A team of Kyoto University researchers investigated life-history variation in masu salmon to understand their ability to adapt to changing environments. They found that fast-life individuals dominated downstream reaches, while slow-life individuals were more prevalent upstream. However, within-habitat variation was found to be more imp...
The Universitat Jaume I is participating in four joint research actions under the EDUC-WIDE project, focusing on materials science, psychology, communication, and education. The projects aim to advance sustainable water purification methods, explore social perception mechanisms, bridge communication gaps, and build an international net...
The COAST-SCAPES project aims to co-design systemic resilience solutions for coastal landscapes by developing integrated indicators, proactive climate warning systems, and knowledge-based strategies. The project promotes the use of nature-based solutions to reduce environmental footprint and restore vulnerable coastal areas.
Scientists found that breathing dusty air from the Salton Sea can alter the lung microbiome and trigger immune responses in mice. The study suggests that chronic exposure to such dust could have significant health effects, including asthma.
New research reveals Greenland is shrinking slightly, but expanding in some regions, due to accelerated melting and prehistoric ice mass movements. The island's horizontal movements are being pulled in different directions, with areas of expansion and contraction observed.